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Heat Islands, Zoning, and Unequal Urban Planning

R. S. Patel & C. L. Monroe — Urban Climate & Design Review. DOI: 10.6210/ucdr.2026.0833
Abstract

Urban heat islands are spatially patterned by historical land‑use decisions and disinvestment, producing disproportionate heat exposure in marginalized neighborhoods. This study overlays satellite surface temperature data, tree canopy inventories, and historical redlining maps to quantify exposure disparities and link them to heat‑related emergency visits. Using spatial regression and neighborhood‑level analyses, we document higher surface temperatures and lower canopy coverage in formerly redlined areas and estimate associated increases in heat‑related morbidity. The paper evaluates targeted cooling investments—tree planting, reflective surfaces, and equitable land‑use planning—and models their potential to reduce exposure and health impacts in the most affected communities.

Introduction

Historical redlining and disinvestment have left a legacy of lower tree canopy and higher impervious surface coverage in many neighborhoods, producing urban heat islands that disproportionately affect marginalized residents. This paper quantifies these patterns and links them to health outcomes.

Methods

We combined satellite surface temperature data with tree canopy inventories and historical redlining maps, and linked these to emergency department visit data for heat‑related conditions. Spatial regression models estimated associations between redlining, canopy, temperature, and health outcomes.

Results

Formerly redlined neighborhoods had higher surface temperatures and lower canopy coverage; these areas also showed higher rates of heat‑related emergency visits. Targeted cooling investments modeled at neighborhood scale reduced estimated exposure disparities.

Discussion

Equitable cooling strategies—prioritizing tree planting, reflective surfaces, and land‑use reforms in historically disadvantaged neighborhoods—can reduce heat exposure and health impacts. Policies should center historical injustice in planning and funding decisions.

References