Wild herbs in the joints of paving stones can reduce ambient temperature by up to 28 degrees Celsius. This finding could contribute to reducing heat stress in cities in the future.
Scientists found that of the 44 species studied, many grasses, mosses and lichens protect the stones. The plants ensure a cooler climate, bind water, store carbon dioxide and produce oxygen, according to the scientists. The findings can also be easily transferred to other building elements of the city, such as walls, and make an important ecological contribution.