Innovative Sustainable Roofing Strategies for Mitigating Urban Heat Islands in Matera

The Urban Heat Island (UHI) effect poses a major environmental challenge in historic cities, exacerbated by urbanization, reduced green areas, and the use of high thermal inertia materials. In Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage city, high built density and urban fabric continuity influence heat accumulation preventing heat dissipation and exacerbating the UHI effect. Additionally, the rehabilitation of the historic center has transformed land use from residential to tourist accommodation services, increasing energy demand for air conditioning, lighting, and thermal comfort. Furthermore, climate change introduces new challenges in urban planning, with extreme temperatures exacerbating thermal stress in heritage environments. This study evaluates the impact of sustainable roofing technologies on thermal and energy by integrating urban climate models and statistical analysis. Three scenarios are simulated: reflective roofs (absorption 0.25), green roofs enhancing thermal regulation through evapotranspiration, and agrivoltaics systems combining vegetation with renewable energy. In high built-density areas (35- 40°C), the agrivoltaics system solutions offer the best balance between thermal efficiency and energy generation (200 kWh/m²/year). Return on investment (ROI) analysis in a 1000 m² area highlights the economic feasibility of these solutions, with an estimated payback period of 5 years. The findings emphasize the need for urban policies that promote sustainable roofing in heritage settings and adapt climate planning to the energy requirements of tourism.