Nature Cities published a research briefing on the role of rural land covers in mitigating the urban heat island effect in cities.

Researchers from the University of Surrey and Southeast University in China conducted a study on the impact of rural land covers surrounding urban areas.

The study found that having a rural ring around a city that extends for at least half its diameter can significantly reduce urban temperatures.

Scientists analyzed 20 years of data from Chinese cities to reach their conclusions.

Connecting rural patches, planting scattered woodlands, and creating larger bodies of water were identified as effective strategies for lowering urban temperatures.

The study highlights the importance of coordinated urban and rural planning to combat rising global temperatures.

Leveraging rural areas to cool urban heat islands can make urban communities more resilient.