Argonne National Laboratory's CROCUS project expands to Woodlawn neighborhood in Chicago

In a groundbreaking initiative, the CROCUS project team from Argonne National Laboratory is expanding its cutting-edge heat-tracking equipment to Woodlawn, as reported by Climate Watch Reporter Tara Molina. The project, based at the U.S. Department of Energy's Argonne National Lab campus in Lemont, aims to monitor rising temperatures and climate change impacts across Chicago, particularly focusing on how extreme heat varies throughout the city. Described as having some of the most advanced instrumentation globally, the team, led by Collis, is delving into how climate change-induced temperature increases affect different parts of Chicago uniquely. Collaborating with community organizations and local academic institutions, the team is investigating the disproportionate impact of extreme heat on underserved neighborhoods in Chicago. Residents in these areas, emitting lower carbon levels and lacking access to air conditioning, are particularly vulnerable. The project's efforts include exploring solutions such as enhancing green spaces, increasing tree coverage, implementing green or white roofs, altering construction practices, and installing more solar panels. Naomi Davis, from Blacks in Green, emphasized the importance of involving the Woodlawn community in understanding the climate crisis and empowering them to contribute to solutions. Last summer, CBS News Chicago accompanied the CROCUS team in Humboldt Park, where the project originated. The team's work, scheduled to continue until 2027, aims to raise awareness about the direct impact of climate change on residents' quality of life and encourage active participation in mitigating its effects. By engaging with the Woodlawn community at a grassroots level, the project seeks to not only collect valuable data but also foster a sense of ownership and collaboration in addressing the climate crisis.