Scientists tested reflective pavement through an Australian summer, and the road surface stayed cooler, but midday radiant heat increased above it

A western Sydney trial revealed reflective roads cool surfaces but raise pedestrian temperatures. This study tracked the trade-off over a year, showing a significant surface temperature difference. While road surfaces cooled, the air temperature directly above them increased during daytime. This finding mirrors similar studies conducted in Los Angeles previously. Australian cities remain cautious about widespread adoption due to these heat redistribution effects.