Which of the following is a good strategy for reducing the heat island effect?

To effectively reduce the heat island effect, providing trees and shading is an excellent strategy. Trees and other forms of vegetation not only contribute to lowering surface and air temperatures through the cooling effects of shade but also enhance the aesthetic quality of the environment and improve air quality. As trees transpire, they release moisture into the air, which further contributes to the cooling effect in urban areas. By incorporating trees and shaded areas into a landscape, buildings, and outdoor spaces can experience significantly reduced temperatures, creating a more comfortable environment for occupants and mitigating the urban heat island effect.

While using reflective roofing materials and installing green roofs are also beneficial strategies, the emphasis in this particular option is on the direct and immediate impact that trees and shaded areas can have on their surroundings, making it a strong choice for heat island mitigation. Increasing paved surfaces, on the other hand, would typically exacerbate the heat island effect, as these materials absorb and retain heat, leading to higher overall temperatures in urban areas.