Can mirrors help fight the threat of extreme heat?
Most of the homes within these settlements are built using zinc-coated corrugated metal sheets, which rust, erode and trap in heat from the sun, making heatwaves increasingly dangerous for residents.
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When you go to Greece or Spain or wherever, whole villages are usually painted white. This is the same idea.
According to Mr Dynes, “the problem with using paints, especially in the tropics, is that it soils very quickly and very easily because of the humidity and dust”.
What’s needed is something which is far more durable, lasts longer and is more effective.
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Since having the reflective roof installed, Khadija said her “day-to-day living is much better, and I can get on with my life more comfortably”.
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While on a small scale, this simple method is proving to be effective in reducing the impact of heat for individuals and families.