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Research

Student researchers map heat on campus

Working with the Sustainable Triangle Field Site, they gather data to provide potential solutions to hotspots.

Press play on the video above to learn more about research from the Sustainable Triangle Field Site. 

Carolina students are taking the lead on key research to document urban heat islands across the UNC-Chapel Hill campus and address sustainability challenges. 

This first research project for many of them is part of the Sustainable Triangle Field Site,established by the Institute for the Environment, in partnership with the environment, ecology and energy program and Sustainable Carolina. 

The students walked 10 routes across all corners of campus to collect temperature and humidity data, giving them hands-on experience gathering data. 

They then used the data they collected to build machine learning models that track hotspots around UNC-Chapel Hill. The group also compiled a policy brief for the University, providing potential solutions to these urban heat islands. 

Map showing heat analysis of Carolina campus

Data compiled by Carolina students showed how some parts of campus are hotter than others. (Sustainable Triangle Field Site)