Content components We’re exploring new ways to combat the urban heat island effect in Boroondara.At the end of February 2026, we applied a ‘Cool Roads’ surface coating to a section of asphalt in the south-east corner of the Inglesby Road Council car park in Camberwell.This surface treatment, which has been described as like sunscreen for asphalt, is designed to provide 3 key benefits:reflect heat rather than absorb itlower the surface temperature on hot days protect the road surface and extend the life of the asphalt.How the trial worksWe’ve installed sensors to measure the difference in temperature between asphalt with the Cool Roads treatment compared with the untreated asphalt area in the car park.View real-time temperature data on the cool road comparison dashboard.Measuring results of the trialWe expect the cooling benefits of the surface treatment to be most effective during peak heat days in summer.We’ll work with our trial partner, Swinburne University of Technology, to evaluate the trial. Swinburne will be supporting the data analysis and evaluation, particularly to compare the temperature data gathered during the 2026-27 summer period.We expect to have clear results of the trial by March 2027, after a full summer period and 12 months of data. We’ll use the results to assess the effectiveness of the trial and consider next steps.Why we are doing this trialThis trial is part of our ongoing work to respond to climate change in Boroondara and investigate ways to reduce urban heat island effects. You can read more about our priorities in our Climate Action Plan.Through this trial, we’re exploring practical ways to:reduce heat in hard-surfaced areasimprove comfort in public spacesextend the life of public assets managed by Council.
