CAUSES AND COUNTERACTION OF THE URBAN HEAT ISLAND EFFECT BY ARCHITECTURAL AND LANDSCAPE MEANS

Today's climate changes caused by anthropogenic factors are occurring according to a dramatic scenario. One of the consequences is the urban heat island effect (UHI). It is caused by the accumulation of heat by urban development. Living in the central part of the city has a number of advantages and is more environmentally friendly comparing with suburbs living. However, city centers are gradually becoming less appropriate for human living. One of the main reasons is the UHI effect. It intensify unfovarable environmental conditions, especially during the hot season. The air temperature in city centers is 2-4°C higher than in the suburbs, in some places on +5-7°C higher then annual average. This difference corresponds to shifting to south on 1000-1200 km in mid-latitudes. The location of cities in deep valleys or canyons significantly enhances UHI the effect. At certain hours difference can be even +10-12°C. During the summer heat (Tmax>30°C), city temperature indicators can become a threat to the life and health of city inhabitants, especially for the elderly. Daytime ventilation during this period contributes to active pollution with 5, 10, 15 microns particles. They can cause various lung diseases. Lung diseases ranks 2-3 place among the causes of mortality in the world. In view of this, computer modelling of the city's climate parameters should be used in the development of urban development strategies. It is also worthwhile to restrict the use of private cars, which can be achieved through parking tariffs, fines and banning their use in certain places; to propose improvements to the urban environment, which should be adapted for pedestrians, bicycles and electric scooters. One of the best tools to counteract the UHI effect is the active use of green spaces on all possible surfaces - facades, roofs, ground level. The most effective means of counteracting the UHI effect is the creation of ventilation corridors. This tool should be provided for both at the level of the master plan and at the level of detailed plans.