As extreme heatwaves become more frequent, they pose a significant threat not only to our health but also to our infrastructure and economy. Specifically, our road networks are both a contributor to and a victim of these scorching temperatures. SuperSealing, a leader in innovative road solutions, shares crucial insights and innovative approaches that local councils can leverage to address these challenges:

Understanding the Toxic Relationship Between Roads and Heat:

Roads are significant contributors to the Urban Heat Island (UHI) effect, making our cities hotter by about 33%. Not only do roads exacerbate the heat problem, but rising temperatures also slash the lifespan of asphalt roads by 17%. Addressing this two-way relationship is crucial for sustainable urban development.

Economic and Health Costs – A Rising Concern:

The UHI effect and the deteriorating condition of roads cost local communities dearly, both in terms of health and finances. Future projections indicate that UHI-related costs might constitute 10% of total council spending. Effective road management is not just a maintenance task but a financial strategy.

Local Mitigation Strategies – Every Street Counts:

Studies show that the vulnerability to heat varies significantly from one street to another. Localised actions, such as cool roofs, green roofs, and cool pavements, have proven to be highly effective. In fact, for every dollar invested in these cooling strategies, communities can reap benefits worth twelve dollars.

The Impact of Cooling Roads:

By investing in cooling strategies for roads, councils can significantly reduce electricity costs for households (by $150 per year) and increase the lifespan of roads by 20%. This translates to a substantial financial saving of about $35,000 for every 1km of local street.

Cost-effective Solutions for a Cooler Environment:

Adapting to a hotter future doesn't necessarily mean higher costs. Councils are encouraged to explore substitutes for current practices that are both cost-effective and low-carbon. This approach ensures that the fight against extreme heat also aligns with broader climate change mitigation goals.

Join the conversation with SuperSealing and discover how Australian cities are already paving the way towards a cooler and more resilient future.