How Tamil Nadu’s ‘Cool Roof’ Project is Leading the Way in Climate Mitigation: A UN-Recognized Innovation

Tamil Nadu’s ‘Cool Roof’ initiative is gaining attention. A recent United Nations (UN) report highlights it as a creative solution for climate change in cities. The UN wants to bring similar cool roof technologies to Delhi, showcasing their effectiveness in urban environments.

The state’s Environment and Climate Change Department, in partnership with the UN Environment Programme, launched this cool roof project in Chennai’s Perumbakkam area. During peak summer, installations of reflective paint reduced indoor temperatures by 5 to 8°C. Supriya Sahu, Secretary of the Environment Department, explained that they used Silka cool roof paint, which has a high Solar Reflective Index. This pilot program involved 200 homes, and there are plans to expand it.

Chennai faces extreme heat due to its dense urban landscape. The UN report notes that the city’s many buildings and lack of green spaces contribute to a heat-island effect, pushing temperatures even higher. To combat this, UNEP and CEPT University analyzed the hottest areas in Chennai and recommended natural cooling methods. These strategies are included in the city’s master plan and could reduce urban temperatures by up to 4°C, potentially cutting heat-related illnesses by 15-30%.

Funding is key to making passive cooling a broader reality. The UNEP is working with local agencies to establish financial support for integrating these solutions into government housing projects. Techniques like reflective roofs, cool pavements, and increased greenery are highlighted as effective measures. In fact, India is becoming a leader in passive cooling, often aided by UNEP’s guidance.

Beyond Chennai, similar projects are popping up across India. For instance, a cool roof is being installed at the Kashmere Gate bus terminal in Delhi, which will benefit over 100,000 commuters daily. This roof will reflect at least 80% of solar heat, providing much-needed relief.

Another initiative involves the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, aiming to incorporate natural ventilation and insulated walls into 10 million homes by 2029. This effort could revolutionize housing in India, making it more comfortable and energy-efficient.

In summary, Tamil Nadu’s Cool Roof project is a promising step toward more sustainable urban living. It highlights how innovative solutions can address climate challenges and improve the quality of life in cities.



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Tamil nadu,India,Chennai