Rep. Neguse Introduces SHIELD Act, Bill to Combat “Heat Island Effect” & Air Pollution

Washington, D.C. — Last week, Congressman Joe Neguse introduced the Surveying the Heat Island Effect across Large Divisions, or SHIELD, Act. This bill directs the Secretary of Defense to do a study of the heat island effect on large-scale installations and then compose a plan to increase greenery coverage to lessen the consequences of this climate phenomenon. The heat island effect has been shown to have an impact on sizable military installations, including military bases, and the increase in temperatures can lead to higher rates of heat-related illnesses in servicemembers. Congressman Neguse secured passage of this provision as part of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2023, but this marks the first time the bill has been introduced as a stand-alone measure. 

“As a member of the Select Committee on the Climate Crisis and the House Natural Resources Committee, I am dedicated to building a more sustainable America. The SHIELD Act prioritizes climate mitigation in communities across this country, improving the livelihoods of Americans everywhere,” said Congressman Joe Neguse.

Read the bill text HERE.

Heat islands can be found in urban or metropolitan areas and are significantly warmer than their surrounding rural areas due to unsustainable levels of human activity. Additionally, they contribute to higher temperatures, reduced nighttime cooling, and higher levels of air pollution. 

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