Urban planning can play a crucial role in mitigating the urban heat island effect by incorporating green spaces, such as parks and vegetation, into city designs. Increasing tree cover and greenery helps to reduce surface temperatures by providing shade and promoting evaporative cooling. Additionally, implementing cool roofs and light-colored materials in construction projects can reflect sunlight instead of absorbing it, thus lowering overall temperatures in urban areas. Furthermore, creating pedestrian-friendly infrastructure like walkways and bike lanes encourages less reliance on vehicles, reducing heat generated from exhaust emissions.