Nashville Asphalt: No Shade Fueling Lip Burn?
By Franklin Everett ShawThe sting of a sunburn on your lips after a day exploring Nashville’s vibrant streets is a uniquely unpleasant experience. But what if that seemingly random burn isn’t so random after all? Could the very asphalt beneath your feet be contributing to the problem? It’s a question worth asking, especially if you’re one of the many Nashvillians who spend significant time outdoors.
Nashville’s asphalt might be reflecting more UV radiation than you think, leading to increased lip burn incidence. Let’s dive into why this might be happening and what you can do about it.
Asphalt isn’t just one thing. Its composition varies depending on the source of the crude oil, the refining process, and the intended use. Different aggregates (the rocks and gravel mixed with the bitumen) can also affect its properties.
For example, asphalt used on I-24 might have a different composition than asphalt used on a residential street in East Nashville. This is because highways need asphalt that can withstand heavier traffic loads and higher speeds.
The key here is the albedo, or reflectivity, of the asphalt. Darker surfaces absorb more sunlight and reflect less, while lighter surfaces do the opposite.
New asphalt is typically darker than aged asphalt. Over time, exposure to sunlight and weather causes the bitumen to oxidize and lighten slightly. This means freshly laid asphalt in areas like the Gulch or downtown Nashville could potentially reflect more UV radiation than older surfaces.
But how much more? This is where things get tricky. There’s limited research specifically on the UV reflectivity of different asphalt types. However, studies on general surface reflectivity show a clear correlation between color and UV reflection.
A study published in the journal Photochemistry and Photobiology found that darker surfaces reflect significantly less UV radiation than lighter surfaces. While this study didn’t focus specifically on asphalt, the principle applies.
To get a better understanding of Nashville’s specific situation, we’d need to analyze samples of asphalt from different locations and of varying ages. This would involve using a spectrophotometer to measure the UV reflection rates.
Imagine a scenario: Metro Nashville Public Works repaves a section of Broadway. The new, dark asphalt absorbs a lot of heat, contributing to the urban heat island effect. But it also reflects a significant amount of UV radiation, potentially increasing the risk of lip burn for tourists and street performers.
This is especially concerning during peak tourist season when people are spending extended periods outdoors without adequate sun protection.
So, what can Nashvillians do to protect themselves? The good news is that simple preventative measures can make a big difference.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to minimizing your risk of lip burn:
Use a broad-spectrum lip balm with an SPF of 30 or higher. Apply it liberally and reapply every two hours, especially after eating or drinking. Look for lip balms containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, as these provide excellent UV protection.
Wear a wide-brimmed hat. This will help shield your face and neck from direct sunlight. A hat with a brim of at least three inches is ideal.
Seek shade whenever possible. Take breaks in shaded areas, especially during the hottest part of the day (10 AM to 4 PM).
Consider wearing UV-protective clothing. This includes long-sleeved shirts and pants made from tightly woven fabrics.
Stay hydrated. Drinking plenty of water helps keep your skin healthy and better able to withstand sun exposure.
Be extra cautious on reflective surfaces. Water, sand, and even new asphalt can significantly increase UV exposure.
One common mistake people make is only applying sunscreen when they’re going to the pool or the park. UV radiation is present even on cloudy days and can penetrate through car windows. Make sun protection a daily habit, regardless of the weather.
Another pitfall is using expired sunscreen. Sunscreen loses its effectiveness over time, so check the expiration date before applying.
A challenge in addressing this issue is the lack of awareness. Many people simply don’t realize that asphalt can reflect UV radiation and contribute to lip burn.
To overcome this, we need to raise awareness through public health campaigns and educational materials. Metro Public Health Department could partner with local businesses and community organizations to distribute information about sun protection.
Furthermore, future research could explore the feasibility of using asphalt with higher albedo in certain areas of Nashville. This could involve incorporating lighter-colored aggregates or applying reflective coatings.
While this might increase the initial cost, it could potentially reduce the long-term health risks associated with UV exposure.
Consider the impact on outdoor workers in Nashville. Construction workers, landscapers, and delivery drivers are all at increased risk of lip burn and other sun-related health problems.
Employers should provide these workers with sun protection gear, such as hats, sunscreen, and UV-protective clothing. They should also schedule breaks in shaded areas and educate workers about the risks of sun exposure.
In conclusion, while more research is needed to definitively determine the UV reflectivity of Nashville’s asphalt, there’s reason to believe that it could be contributing to increased lip burn incidence. By taking simple preventative measures and raising awareness, we can protect ourselves and our community from the harmful effects of UV radiation. Let’s make sure that enjoying the vibrant energy of Nashville doesn’t come at the cost of our health.