Keeping neighbourhoods cool

Did you know that planting trees on your property can help to keep your neighbourhood cool during a heatwave? Trees, plants and other green surfaces can deflect radiation from the sun, release moisture into the atmosphere and keep areas shaded throughout the day to help take the edge off the heat.

As can be seen in these images, hard asphalt surfaces can reach temperatures of over 65 degrees Celsius when exposed to prolonged sunlight on a hot day, while nearby asphalt covered by shade can be almost 30 degrees Celsius cooler – look at the difference! Artificial lawn can get even hotter, reaching temperatures of almost 80 degrees Celsius. Meanwhile natural lawn protected by shade cover can reach a far more comfortable 35 degrees Celsius.

Preserving our urban canopy throughout our streets, parks and reserves is crucial in reducing the impacts of urban heat in summer, and you can support this at home too. Caring for trees on your property and planting new ones is the best way to care for the local environment and keep your neighbourhood cool.

To encourage the planting of native trees on private land, Council holds a Native Tree Giveaway every year which allows residents, schools and community groups to apply for one or more tree vouchers valued up to $75. This year’s giveaway is open now until 30 September, giving you the chance to help support our natural environment by planting native trees on your land. Find out more at www.burnside.sa.gov.au/Environment-Sustainability/Trees/Native-Tree-Giveaway

Shaded grass on a 40 degree day, February 2023Unshaded artificial turf on a 40 degree day, February 2023Shaded asphalt on a 40 degree day, February 2023 Unshaded asphalt on a 40 degree day, February 2023