These are independent reviews of the products mentioned, but TIME receives a commission when purchases are made through affiliate links at no additional cost to the purchaser.
When the sun shines on a typical white building, the exterior’s paint reflects 80 to 90% of the light. The remainder warms the surrounding area and inflates air-conditioning bills. But a new, whiter paint incorporates chemicals that better scatter UV rays, making it up to 98% reflective and potentially reducing AC needs by as much as 40%. “The heat is reflected into deep space,” says Xiulin Ruan, a professor of mechanical engineering who led the Purdue University team that created the paint. “You keep our cities cooler.” In fall 2022, the team announced the development of a thinner, lighter version that could coat airplanes, cars, and even spaceships.
More Must-Reads from TIME
- Donald Trump Is TIME's 2024 Person of the Year
- Why We Chose Trump as Person of the Year
- Is Intermittent Fasting Good or Bad for You?
- The 100 Must-Read Books of 2024
- The 20 Best Christmas TV Episodes
- Column: If Optimism Feels Ridiculous Now, Try Hope
- The Future of Climate Action Is Trade Policy
- Merle Bombardieri Is Helping People Make the Baby Decision
