Ingravitto proposes implementing bioclimatic islands in Andalusian cities to combat high temperatures.

SEVILLA, (EUROPA PRESS)

In this regard, Raúl Tinoco, CEO of Ingravitto, has emphasized that “a strategic plan is needed on the part of the authorities that is committed to transforming the busiest urban spaces in order to restore environmental comfort and promote social relations.”

It should be remembered that ‘Bioclimatic Refuge Islands’ are plant refuges that are set up in central areas of the city, such as main avenues, squares, or open public spaces, where bioclimatic measures are implemented to combat high ambient temperatures in the spring, summer, and early October.

According to the CEO of Ingravitto, "in order to install the bioclimatic islands, we have to carry out a preliminary analysis and collect quantifiable data on all the factors that condition the space, such as solar radiation and the variation in shade during the day. We have to measure temperatures, relative humidity, CO2 emissions from traffic, prevailing winds, noise, and a long list of other factors. All of this provides values that can be used to design the urban space with all the appropriate measures to mitigate and combat high temperatures," he added.

The final design of these bioclimatic shelters is based on nature, with the creation of shade using native deciduous species, enveloping green roofs, vertical gardens, and shaded pedestrian walkways with photovoltaic pergolas that generate energy.

Added to this are permeable and non-reflective flooring materials such as sand, earth, clay, landscaped areas, and “something very important,” water features such as fountains and water surfaces “that humidify the environment and can serve to cool users.”

In line with the above, Tinoco stated that “we must demand that our administrations create a network of bioclimatic islands that are identified and accessible to 100% of the population within a five-minute radius of their homes.” “This is what is known as the ‘five-minute rule,’ with measures to promote the enjoyment of the streets that we love so much in Andalusia,” he added..

He also pointed out that “these islands will not only provide relief during heat waves, but will also play a key role in reducing CO2 emissions and offering us a healthier and more sustainable environment.” “At the same time, the local economy of our cities will be boosted because the streets will be usable for more hours of the day.”

The construction materials commonly used on our streets also deserve a review, according to the CEO of Ingravitto. “We need to consider replacing materials that currently promote the production and radiation of heat, such as asphalt and concrete, with materials that are permeable to solar radiation and more natural, such as sand, earth, or artificial elements manufactured based on nature.” “And, of course, we must move away from dark colors and start using light or white colors in our pavements,” he said.

The “pressing drought” affecting Andalusia is leading Ingravitto to “implement more architectural solutions” in line with rainwater recovery, obtaining groundwater to lower the ambient temperature, and reducing water consumption for domestic use, according to the company itself.