A new Las Vegas-based study has revealed the benefits that trees can offer in cities with hot, arid climates.
The scientists found that street trees can create shaded spots that are nearly 30 degrees Fahrenheit cooler than their surroundings, according to a summary from the Desert Research Institute. Further, the researchers assert that a large-scale planting of drought-tolerant tree species could cool citywide nighttime air temperatures by around 3 degrees Fahrenheit. However, most of the cooling benefits occur at night, since trees’ adaptations limit daytime cooling to the desert air.
The study adds to a growing body of research highlighting the benefits of trees in urban environments. For instance, scientists have recently developed a tool that can help predict the effects of tree planting on cooling on a citywide scale. Still, the authors state it will be challenging to apply their findings to other cities…