California Cool Pavements Research and Implementation Act (AB 296, 2012)

Assembly Bill 296, the “Cool Pavements Research and Implementation Act,” was approved by California Governor Jerry Brown on September 27, 2012. AB 296 calls upon the California Environmental Protection Agency (CalEPA) and the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) to develop a standard specification for sustainable or "cool" pavements that can be used to mitigate urban heat islands.

Cool pavements absorb less sunlight than conventional pavements, helping reduce surface and air temperatures in cities. Recent research shows that lighter-colored roofs and pavements can reduce smog, cut energy consumption, cool urban areas, and mitigate the impacts of climate change.

The bill requires CalEPA to develop heat reduction strategies with the CA Climate Action Team, and to pursue cool pavement technologies with CalTrans. CalEPA is directed to develop a definition for the term urban heat island effect inclusive of an effect index, and upon completion of an index, develop a standard specification for sustainable or cool pavements. 

The specifications for cool pavements will complement and support the existing voluntary standards for cool pavements in the California Green Building Code.

According to a U.S. Environmental Protect Agency (U.S. EPA) report regarding urban heat islands, on a hot summer day, the sun can heat dry, exposed urban surfaces, such as roofs and pavements, to temperatures 50 - 90 degrees hotter than air, while shaded or moist surfaces (often in more rural surroundings) remain close to air temperatures.  The report notes that heat island impacts include increased energy consumption, elevated emissions of air pollutants and greenhouse gases, compromised human health and comfort, and impaired water quality.  Reducing the heat island effect can includes four measures:  increasing tree and vegetative cover, creating green roofs, installing cool (mainly reflective) roofs, and using cool pavements.
 

Publication Date: September 27, 2012

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