Video: From Rooftop to Alleyway, Chicago Fights Extreme Urban Heat With Greener Ideas

As the planet warms, heat waves are becoming more frequent and severe.  The problem is compounded in cities by the "urban heat island" effect -- the tendency for cities to be much warmer than the surrounding countryside.  In this 10 minute video, PBS Newshour reports on Chicago's efforts to cool the city down and dampen the rising need for air conditioning.  

See also the full report, a companion slide show and the transcript.

It is one of series of videos on Coping With Climate Change series.  Among recent programs are:

• Storms, Starfish and Warmer Waters Wiped out Half of Great Barrier Reef Coral.  2 October 2012.
• Shifting Seasons Lead to Sour Year for Michigan Cherry Farmers. 16 August 2012.
• Native American Communities Affected by Climate Change Plan for the Future.  19 July 2012.
• Swinomish Tribe Works to Adapt to Shrinking Salmon Supply. 18 July 2012.
• In Louisiana, Rising Seas Threaten Native Americans' Land. 1 June 2012.
• Teachers Endure Balancing Act Over Climate Change Curriculum.  2 May 2012.
• 'Earth: The Operator's Manual' Chronicles Conservation Solutions Around Globe.  23 April 2012.
• Coping With Climate Change: 2 Texas Towns Struggle for Water.  22 March 2012.