UN Spotlights Tamil Nadu’s ‘Cool Roof’ Initiative as a Game-Changer in Climate Mitigation

Tamil Nadu’s ‘Cool Roof’ initiative is getting global attention. A recent United Nations report highlighted it as an innovative way to tackle climate change in cities. The UN is exploring similar cool roof technologies for Delhi as well.

This initiative is part of Chennai’s Urban Heat Mitigation Project. The Tamil Nadu government, in collaboration with the UN Environment Programme, has implemented cool roof technology in a residential area. According to UNEP, this approach has lowered indoor temperatures by 5 to 8°C during the hottest months.

Supriya Sahu, Secretary of Environment, Climate Change, and Forests for Tamil Nadu, explained that the Lighthouse Project in Perumbakkam served as a test site. The project used Silka cool roof paint, known for its high Solar Reflective Index, on two residential blocks of 200 houses. This passive cooling method is now being expanded.

Chennai faces extreme heat due to its industrial growth and lack of green spaces. The UN report noted the city’s heat-island effect and mentioned efforts to map the hottest areas. Recommendations, such as incorporating nature and passive cooling into city planning, could reduce urban temperatures by up to 4°C and lower heat-related illnesses by 15-30%.

UNEP is also working on financing options in Tamil Nadu to support passive cooling in public housing projects. Solutions include reflective roofs, cool pavements, and shaded areas, which can significantly reduce heat in urban settings.

India is becoming a leader in passive cooling, integrating these methods into national policies and planning. Other projects, like the “cool roof” at Delhi’s Kashmere Gate bus terminal, aim to help thousands of commuters by reflecting 80% of solar heat.

Moreover, UNEP is collaborating with the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana–Urban (PMAY) to incorporate passive cooling features in 10 million homes targeted for completion by 2029. This is a major step toward making urban living more comfortable as temperatures rise.

By focusing on solutions like cool roofs, cities can mitigate heat stress and improve living conditions for everyone.

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Tamil nadu,India,Chennai