Cooling Potential of Cool Roofs

Reflective roofs can lower temperatures, bringing a wide range of benefits. Yet a WRI analysis of 78 cities shows they make up just 1% of roof area. Image by Marco Brivio/iStock Cities and towns in the Mediterranean and the Middle East have long used white or light-colored roofs and walls to help keep people cool. Today, cities from Ahmedabad to Singapore are also turning to cool roofs to reduce urban heat and lower energy demand.