SMART Innovations
One tool to reduce the adverse affects of global and urban climate change is to develop a new generation of Sustainable Materials and Renewable Technologies also known as SMART Innovations. Researchers around the country are working to develop materials and technologies that can interact with climate influences while maintaining engineering or mechanistic properties.
Examples include “Cool Roof” designs which alter albedo and emissivity values to reduce heat gains during the day. Similar efforts are under way for pavements and paved surfaces. Additionally, renewable energy technologies which can support adaptive cooling while not contributing to greenhouse gas emissions are yet another example.
SMART Innovations however do not require the development of high-tech solutions. Researchers are looking at how natural designs such as increased urban forestation can support adaptation and mitigation strategies.
One resource is the National Center of Excellence on SMART Innovations at Arizona State University: www.asuSMART.org
