Urban Density, Meteorology and Rooftops

In recent years, there has been a recognition in Australia and elsewhere of the many favourable aspects of denser urban development, and a corresponding move towards promoting it in urban plans such as Melbourne 2030. The many appealing aspects of denser cities are summarised. Some of the negative impacts of dense urban development on the climate and hydrology of a city are set out and examples of these are provided. Strategies to minimise these adverse effects are proposed, including the widespread use of rooftop gardens.