Reflective Materials are surfaces designed to return a large fraction of incident solar radiation rather than absorbing it. Their effectiveness is measured by albedo, a dimensionless value between 0 and 1 , representing the ratio of reflected radiation to incoming radiation.

- A high albedo surface (close to 1) reflects most solar energy.
   Examples include white roofs, polished metals, or light-colored concrete.

- A low albedo surface (close to 0) absorbs most incoming radiation.
   Examples include dark asphalt, soil, or black roofing.

In urban environments, using high-albedo, reflective materials can significantly reduce heat absorption, thereby lowering the urban heat island effect, decreasing cooling loads, and improving thermal comfort.