“The concrete and the asphalt absorb the heat during the day and slowly release it back into the atmosphere so they maintain that high temperature,” said Susan Agolini, assistant professor of biology at Marymount University. “Other areas that are green can dissipate that heat more easily.” During a heatwave, heat islands can have an adverse impact on energy resources, the economy and human health — especially in minority communities. “It really gets to a matter of social justice because different areas are going to have different heat, and that impacts people’s health,” Agolini said. With volunteer John Coggin riding in the passenger seat, Agolini drove throughout Arlington, taking measurements that will become critical data Virginia officials will need to combat climate change.