Credit 7.1- Heat Island Effect: Non-Roof
SS7.1 usually requires the help of professionals to efficiently earn the credit. Help is needed from the contractor, AP, landscape architect, architect, and civil engineer to reduce the heat island effect. The defines the heat island effect as “occurring when warmer temperatures are experienced in urban landscapes compared to adjacent rural areas as a result of solar energy retention on constructed surfaces.”
Under Option 1 of SS7.1, the project must provide shade to 50% of the site area within 5 years of occupancy. The option also allows for providing an open grid area with paving material of SRI 29 or higher. To get the credit under Option 2, the project must provide 50% parking underground, or provide paving material with SRI 29 or higher.
One of the most simplistic ways to help earn this credit is to change the color of the concrete pavement. Adding trees to create more shade is another cost-effective solution. A large majority of projects take advantage of the SS7.1 credit.