Date of Award

2024-08-01

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy

Department

Geological Sciences

Advisor(s)

Benjamin Brunner

Abstract

This dissertation addresses critical challenges in urban heat management, sustainable energy resource utilization, and water quality communication through three studies. Study 1 investigates the impact of roof color on urban heat islands in Tucson, Arizona where approximately 70% of roofs display high albedo (i.e., light) colors. Energy consumption simulations conducted indicate that converting dark- to light-colored roofs could save Tucson approximately $1,400,000 annually in energy costs, highlighting the potential of cool roofs for energy savings and improved thermal comfort. Study 2 assesses the sources of lithium in subsurface waters in West Texas and South Central New Mexico. Water chemistry data from the Hueco, Mesilla, Tularosa, and Jornada del Muerto Basins were analyzed to predict lithium (Li) endmember composition using positive matrix factorization (PMF). Lithium is pivotal in energy storage and PMF source apportionment helps the assessment of the economic potential for Li extraction. The PMF model identified two out of four factors (i.e., sources) with high Li contributions, averaging 0.082 mg/L for Factor 1, a shallow, low-salinity water source, and 0.089 mg/L for Factor 2, an older groundwater source influenced by mineral dissolution from old evaporite deposits. Study 3 examines effective written communication of water quality data to the public, which is essential for informing residents about their water's safety. The complexity and variability of reports hinder public understanding, especially in communities with diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds. Based on an evaluation of established practices in regulated water quality reporting in diverse communities, a water quality reporting template for the immediate implementation by researchers was developed. Together, these studies contribute to the fields of urban planning, sustainable energy, and public health communication, guiding policymakers, researchers, and practitioners in addressing these pressing challenges and promoting sustainable development.

Language

en

Provenance

Received from ProQuest

File Size

144 p.

File Format

application/pdf

Rights Holder

Judith Hoyt

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