Climate change is increasing the 'heat sink' effect, with traditional construction materials, such as asphalt, steel, and concrete, trapping more and more heat. In urban areas the effect can increase ambient temperatures by up to 20% compared with rural areas. That's where our creative team on a level crossing removal project in Melbourne's west comes in.
They used an innovative product called 'Cool Seal' to coat part of the new railway station's asphalt carpark to reduce the heat sink effect. This bitumen-based seal coat product contains 5% recycled crushed glass and lowers surface temperatures by 3-15 degrees. Not only that, it can also extend pavement life by 5-7 years and decrease lighting requirements due to its high reflectivity. This makes it both highly effective and cost neutral.
The impact on human comfort is considerable. In combination with smart landscaping elements 'Cool Seal' delivers a high value community outcome, increasing commuter comfort and reducing the station precinct's impact on the environment overall.
