Research on Mitigation Techniques for Heat Retention on Indiana University Southeast’s Campus

Abstract

This study examined how greenspaces and hardscapes contribute to the overall heat retention of Indiana University Southeast’s campus. Our main areas that we focused on were forest, grass, building roofs, walking paths, parking lots/roads, and lake/water. Utilizing Google Earth Pro, we calculated the area of the areas in square meters. Subsequently, we calculated the albedo of each surface type. Other research conducted includes mitigation techniques such as tree types to employ, the transformation of the roof of the Life Sciences building into a green roof, and the installation of pavers. By making these campus improvements, we will ensure less trips to medical centers for students impacted by intense heat; we will lower greenhouse gas emissions to combat the climate crisis; we will increase habitat areas for pollinator species and other native organisms; we will ensure that our current and future students hold praise and a sense of belonging when thinking about our campus. It is our duty as informed students, faculty members, and stewards of this great planet to take action with the knowledge that we have amassed. The time has passed for us to continue with business as usual and hope for the best when pondering the future of our campus and our planet. The time to act is now. By making the adjustments and gathering the data found within this proposal, we are headed towards not only a healthier, more efficient campus but a more connected and stable world.