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2. Reduce the heat island effect Parking lots and streets are significant sources of heat and pollutants (parked cars emit hydrocarbons that contribute to the formation of ground level ozone), as well as often being unattractive. Trees reduce the amount of heat stored in, or reflected from, paved surfaces which can contribute to increased building and car temperatures. Light colored, stabilized, compacted soil, in lieu of asphalt was used to surface this parking lot, reducing heat island gradients by 30%. ^ Check with your local municipality for minimum tree requirements in parking lots: then specify more. ^ Select and plant trees that are appropriate for the site in terms of soil type, water use and exposure. ^ Choose as large a tree as possible but be sure it will be allowed to grow to its natural shape and size in the allotted space. ^ Use open grid paving. ^ Also, select light colored, reflective paving materials. ^ And consider shading paved areas with photovoltaic arrays. Patios & cars can be much more comfortable in the summer. Air quality can be improved. Costs of cooling adjacent buildings may be lowered. 3. Shade air conditioners Limiting the sun that shines directly on an air conditioner will keep it cooler and running more efficiently. ^ Choose a shrub or tree that will match the soil and microclimate. ^ Or build a freestanding arbor with deciduous vines to provide shade. ^ Do not obstruct airFlow around the Unlt. The air conditioner runs more effciently which will reduce your client's utility bill. More shade =More energy savings. Cleaner air =Better health and fewere hospital visits. More stormwater =Lower costs for management stormwater controls. More shaded =Longer time streets between resurfacing. SOURCE: CENTER FOR URBAN FOREST RESEARCH. DAVIS. CA. 2003 "Compared to asmall-stature tree, a strategically located large stature tree has a bigger impact on conserving energy, mitigating an urban heat island and cooling a parking lot. " -James Geiger, Center for Urban Forest Research, Davis Shade Effectiveness in Parking Lots Parking lots are thermal hot spots. Many cities in California have ordinances that require shading of paved area by trees. Implement the suggestions below to ensure that you maximize shading: ^ Become familiar with local ordinances and their recommended tree lists. ^ Include only trees that are on the local ordinance's recommended tree list. ^ Be sure crown diameters on parking lot plans are not overstated. ^ Do not allow smaller-size substitutions after the plans have been approved. ^ Follow up to ensure trees are actually planted, as well as not removed after planting, especially at sites near store fronts where trees could obstruct signs. ADAPTED FROM: FACT SHEET N3: MAKING PARK/NG LOTS MORE TREE FRIENDLY, CENTER FOR URBAN FOREST RESARCH, PACIFIC SOUTHWEST RESEARCH STATION, VSDA FOREST SERVIG E, DAVIS, CA, 2002. R° b '~ ~.. ti ~ ~ ~. y 39