Atlanta Shade: Sidewalk Lack Crashing Summer Skin?
By Franklin Everett ShawThe Atlanta sun, especially during the summer months, isn’t just about enjoying the heat. It’s a serious health concern, particularly for those of us who rely on walking. The lack of consistent shade on sidewalks turns a simple errand into a potential sun-exposure hazard. We need to take action, both personally and collectively, to mitigate this risk.
Protecting yourself from the sun in Atlanta requires a multi-pronged approach. It’s not just about slapping on some sunscreen and hoping for the best.
Clothing is your first line of defense. Think long sleeves, pants, and wide-brimmed hats. Look for clothing with an Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) rating. A UPF of 50+ blocks 98% of UV rays. Darker colors generally offer more protection than lighter ones.
Sunscreen is crucial, but application matters. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Broad-spectrum means it protects against both UVA and UVB rays. Apply it liberally 15-30 minutes before heading out, and reapply every two hours, or immediately after swimming or sweating. Don’t forget often-missed spots like your ears, the back of your neck, and the tops of your feet.
Consider the time of day. The sun’s rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. If possible, schedule your walks for earlier in the morning or later in the afternoon.
Seek out shade whenever possible. This is where knowing your neighborhood comes in.
Identifying areas with more tree cover in Atlanta is key to planning safer walking routes. Some neighborhoods are naturally shadier than others.
Explore older neighborhoods. Areas like Inman Park, Druid Hills, and Ansley Park often have mature tree canopies that provide significant shade. These neighborhoods were planned with trees in mind.
Utilize parks and green spaces. Piedmont Park, Grant Park, and the Atlanta Botanical Garden offer shaded walking paths. Even a short detour through a park can reduce your sun exposure.
Use online resources. Google Maps can be helpful for identifying areas with dense tree cover. Look for the green areas on the map. However, be aware that the imagery may not be completely up-to-date.
Walk on the side of the street with buildings. Buildings can provide shade, especially during certain times of the day. Pay attention to the sun’s position and choose your route accordingly.
Consider the BeltLine. While parts of the BeltLine are exposed, other sections offer shade from trees and overpasses. Explore different segments to find the shadiest options.
But personal protection is only half the battle. We need to advocate for a greener Atlanta, one with more trees and more shade for everyone.
Advocating for increased urban tree canopy requires a strategic and persistent approach. It’s about making your voice heard and working with local government to create positive change.
Attend City Council meetings. This is your opportunity to directly address your elected officials and voice your concerns about the lack of shade and the need for more trees. Prepare a concise and compelling statement.
Contact your City Council representative. Email, call, or write a letter to your representative. Explain how the lack of shade affects you and your community. Be specific about the areas that need more trees.
Join or support local environmental organizations. Groups like Trees Atlanta and the Georgia Conservancy are working to protect and expand Atlanta’s tree canopy. They often have volunteer opportunities and advocacy campaigns you can participate in.
Organize your neighbors. A united voice is more powerful than an individual one. Talk to your neighbors about the issue and work together to advocate for change. Consider starting a petition or organizing a community meeting.
Support candidates who prioritize environmental issues. Pay attention to the candidates’ platforms and vote for those who are committed to increasing the urban tree canopy and creating a more sustainable city.
Be persistent. Change doesn’t happen overnight. It takes time and effort to convince local government to prioritize tree planting. Don’t give up. Keep showing up, keep speaking out, and keep advocating for a greener Atlanta.
One common mistake is assuming that sunscreen alone is enough. It’s not. Sunscreen is just one piece of the puzzle. Another pitfall is failing to reapply sunscreen frequently enough. Remember, every two hours, or after swimming or sweating.
Another challenge is the perception that tree planting is expensive and time-consuming. While it does require resources, the long-term benefits of a healthy tree canopy far outweigh the costs. Trees provide shade, reduce the urban heat island effect, improve air quality, and increase property values.
Consider the case of the Old Fourth Ward neighborhood. Years ago, it was a concrete jungle with very little green space. Through community activism and strategic tree planting, the neighborhood has transformed into a much shadier and more livable place. This shows what’s possible with dedication and collaboration.
Ultimately, protecting ourselves from the Atlanta sun is a shared responsibility. By taking personal precautions and advocating for a greener city, we can create a healthier and more enjoyable environment for everyone. Let’s work together to make Atlanta a city where walking in the summer is a pleasure, not a hazard.