Mongabay · Climate & nature

Rooftop Sprinklers Using Rainwater Could Cool Cities

A new model suggests rooftop rainwater collection and sprinkler systems could help reduce urban heat island effects, offering an economical defense against global warming.

Researchers modeled rooftop rainwater collection tanks and smart sprinkler systems to assess urban cooling. The model, using Tokyo as a case study, found potential temperature reductions indoors and outdoors during heat waves.

The system uses stored rainwater, released by sprinklers onto roofs when temperatures reach a threshold, cooling through evaporation. This offers dual benefits for indoor and outdoor temperatures.

Published in Earth's Future, the study suggests the model is adaptable for global cities. Researchers noted the system's simplicity, economy, and use of existing rainwater.

Urban heat islands are areas hotter than surrounding rural areas, exacerbated by climate change due to factors like lack of evaporation and building density.

The model's effectiveness depends on tank size, sprinkler intensity, and trigger temperature. Larger tanks and specific trigger temperatures showed greater benefits.

Potential co-benefits include reduced air conditioning use, lowering greenhouse gas emissions, and decreased urban runoff during heavy rainfall.

Further study is needed for global implementation, including cost analysis and effectiveness in different climates. Field tests are the planned next step.

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