Peer-reviewed Study on GAF and Climate Resolve Initiative Demonstrates Effectiveness of Cool Pavement Coatings in Mitigating Extreme Heat
LOS ANGELES, and PARSIPPANY, N.J., April 11, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- GAF, a Standard Industries company and North America's largest roofing and waterproofing manufacturer, and Climate Resolve, a Los Angeles-based nonprofit dedicated to climate resilience, announced the results of a peer-reviewed study by Altostratus Inc. examining the effects of cool pavements in mitigating urban heat. The study, which was conducted in the Pacoima neighborhood of Los Angeles as part of the GAF Cool Community Project, revealed reductions of ambient air temperatures by as much as 3.5°F during extreme heat events and a 25-50% reduction in the local census-tract urban heat island effect during temperature peaks. The results reinforce the efficacy of cool pavement technology as one strategy to help cities tackle extreme heat, particularly in communities like Pacoima, one of the hottest neighborhoods in Los Angeles, that have been underinvested in when it comes to climate solutions.
- This initiative took a community-wide approach to mitigating heat through cool pavement coatings, including testing two adjacent and similar sections of the community to compare, side-by-side, before and after coating with reflective pavements.
- "The publication of this study is a significant step forward in our collective efforts to address urban heat disparities," said Jonathan Parfrey, executive director of Climate Resolve.
- "Urban heat is a pressing issue with far-reaching implications, and this research highlights the viability of pavement coatings as a strategy in combating global climate change."
- GAF, Climate Resolve and their partners remain committed to advancing evidence-based solutions for building climate-resilient cities.