doi: 10.56294/sctconf2024834

 

Category: STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics)

 

REVIEW

 

Reviewing Study of the Urban Heat Island Phenomenon and Mitigation Strategies Using Available Technology

 

Estudio de revisión del fenómeno de la isla de calor urbana y estrategias de mitigación con la tecnología disponible

 

Osama Laith Ibrahim1 *, Younis Mahmood Mohammed Saleem1 *

 

1Department of Architectural Engineering, University of Technology-Iraq. Baghdad. Iraq.

 

Cite as: Laith Ibrahim O, Mohammed Saleem YM. Reviewing Study of the Urban Heat Island Phenomenon and Mitigation Strategies Using Available Technology. Salud, Ciencia y Tecnología - Serie de Conferencias. 2024; 3:834. https://doi.org/10.56294/sctconf2024834

 

Submitted: 26-01-2024             Revised: 07-04-2024              Accepted: 02-06-2024              Published: 03-06-2024

 

Editor: Dr. William Castillo-González

 

Note: Paper presented at the 3rd Annual International Conference on Information & Sciences (AICIS’23).

 

ABSTRACT

 

This abstract explores the role of technology in enhancing the environmental performance of urban spaces. Rapid urbanization and increased environmental concerns have made it imperative to seek innovative solutions. Technology offers various opportunities to address these challenges. Smart transportation management systems optimize traffic flow, reduce congestion, and minimize emissions through the use of intelligent traffic signals and real-time data analysis. Smart energy management technologies enable efficient monitoring and control of energy consumption, promoting energy savings and reducing carbon footprints. Smart waste management solutions, such as sensor-equipped bins and data-driven collection schedules, improve waste management efficiency and promote recycling. Additionally, smart infrastructure, including smart lighting and water management systems, enhance energy efficiency and resource conservation. Furthermore, technology plays a crucial role in promoting environmental awareness through the use of mobile applications and online platforms, disseminating information and encouraging sustainable practices among urban residents. By harnessing the potential of technology, urban spaces can become more environmentally friendly, fostering sustainable development and improving the quality of life for residents.

 

Keywords: Urbanization; Environmental Performance; Smart Technology; Urban Heat Island; Mitigation Strategies.

 

RESUMEN

 

Este resumen explora el papel de la tecnología en la mejora del comportamiento medioambiental de los espacios urbanos. La rápida urbanización y la creciente preocupación por el medio ambiente han hecho imperativa la búsqueda de soluciones innovadoras. La tecnología ofrece diversas oportunidades para afrontar estos retos. Los sistemas inteligentes de gestión del transporte optimizan el flujo del tráfico, reducen la congestión y minimizan las emisiones mediante el uso de señales de tráfico inteligentes y el análisis de datos en tiempo real. Las tecnologías inteligentes de gestión de la energía permiten supervisar y controlar eficazmente el consumo energético, fomentando el ahorro de energía y reduciendo la huella de carbono. Las soluciones inteligentes de gestión de residuos, como los contenedores equipados con sensores y los programas de recogida basados en datos, mejoran la eficiencia de la gestión de residuos y promueven el reciclaje. Además, las infraestructuras inteligentes, como los sistemas inteligentes de iluminación y gestión del agua, mejoran la eficiencia energética y la conservación de los recursos. Además, la tecnología desempeña un papel crucial en la promoción de la concienciación medioambiental mediante el uso de aplicaciones móviles y plataformas en línea, difundiendo información y fomentando prácticas sostenibles entre los residentes urbanos. Aprovechando el potencial de la tecnología, los espacios urbanos pueden ser más respetuosos con el medio ambiente, fomentando el desarrollo sostenible y mejorando la calidad de vida de los residentes.

 

Palabras clave: Urbanización; Desempeño Ambiental; Tecnología Inteligente; Isla de Calor Urbana; Estrategias de Mitigación.

 

 

 

INTRODUCTION

According to the 2018 World Urbanization Prospects by the United Nations, more than half (55 %) of the world’s population currently resides in urban areas. The report further projects that by 2050, urban areas will be home to approximately 60 % of the global population. This trend of global urbanization and urban expansion is expected to persist, particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa and Asia. The data highlights the ongoing shift of populations from rural to urban areas, indicating the need for strategic planning and sustainable development initiatives to accommodate the growing urban populations and address associated challenges.(1) The process of urbanization has brought about significant transformations in landscape patterns and processes, resulting in notable changes. One of the prominent effects is the expansion of impervious surfaces, such as roads, buildings, and pavements, which has increased over time. This expansion reduces the natural infiltration of water into the ground, leading to issues like stormwater runoff and decreased groundwater recharge.(2)

The altered atmospheric composition in urban areas can have adverse effects on human health and the environment. Exposure to high levels of air pollution can lead to respiratory problems, cardiovascular diseases, and other health issues. Additionally, pollutants can contribute to the formation of smog, acid rain, and the degradation of air quality.(3,4) As a consequence, various urban meteorological phenomena have been observed and identified, with the Urban Heat Island (UHI) emerging as one of the most prominent climate phenomena. The Urban Heat Island is typically defined as a human-induced climatic phenomenon characterized by higher temperatures in urban areas compared to the surrounding rural areas.

The UHI effect occurs due to the alteration of land surfaces, the presence of extensive impervious surfaces, and the release of heat from human activities. These factors contribute to increased absorption and retention of solar radiation, limited natural cooling mechanisms, and reduced airflow in urban areas. As a result, urban areas experience higher temperatures, especially during the day and in the evening, compared to nearby rural or natural areas.(5) Over the past few decades, extensive research has been conducted on the Urban Heat Island (UHI) effect from various perspectives.(6,7,8,9) Numerous studies have examined the distribution patterns of UHI and explored the relationships between air temperature (AT)/land surface temperature (LST) and land cover/use types.(10)

Additionally, researchers have investigated the correlation between UHI and ecosystem service value.(11)

Efforts have also been made to alleviate the UHI effect through various means, such as green roofs and the modification of building materials and colors.(12,13,14)

However, many studies argue that the development of urban blue-green spaces may be a more effective solution due to their cost-effectiveness, environmental friendliness, and political acceptance.(15) The cooling effect of blue-green spaces has been increasingly recognized as a promising approach to mitigate the UHI effect.(16) Recent research has led to the development of technological measures to counterbalance the impact of the urban heat island.(17) These mitigation techniques aim to balance the thermal budget of cities by increasing thermal losses and reducing corresponding gains. Key techniques include increasing the albedo (reflectivity) of the urban environment, expanding green spaces, and utilizing natural heat sinks to dissipate excess heat.(18) Real-scale applications of these mitigation techniques have shown significant climatic benefits and substantial reduction in the strength of the urban heat island.(19) One important area of focus is roofs, as they constitute a substantial portion of the exposed urban area. Implementing measures such as cool roofs, green roofs, and rooftop gardens can significantly reduce surface temperatures, improve energy efficiency, and enhance the overall microclimate of urban areas. These techniques offer promising solutions for mitigating the urban heat island effect and creating more sustainable and comfortable cities.(20) Due to the limited availability and high economic value of free ground areas in urban environments, implementing large-scale mitigation technologies on the ground surface of cities can be challenging. As urbanization progresses, the proportion of spaces allocated for plants, trees, and other mitigation infrastructures decreases due to new building developments.(21) Roofs offer a vast and often underutilized space that can be leveraged to implement various mitigation measures. For instance, the installation of cool roofs, which have high solar reflectance and thermal emittance, can significantly reduce the absorption of solar radiation and lower surface temperatures. This, in turn, reduces the energy required for cooling buildings, leading to substantial energy savings and cost reductions. Cool roofs are designed to have high solar reflectance and thermal emittance. They are typically constructed with materials that reflect a larger portion of the solar radiation they receive, minimizing the absorption of heat. By reflecting more sunlight, cool roofs help to reduce the amount of heat transferred to the building, thus lowering the demand for cooling energy. This results in energy savings, reduced urban heat island effect, and improved thermal comfort within the building.(22) Another important mitigation technology associated with roofs is the concept of green roofs or living roofs, which involves partially or completely covering rooftops with vegetation.(23) Both technologies can lower the surface temperatures of roofs and thus to decrease the corresponding sensible heat flux to the atmosphere. What are the implications of urban growth and expansion on the environment and human health, and how can the Urban Heat Island effect be mitigated using available technology and strategies?”

·      What is the impact of urban growth and urban expansion on the environment and human health?

·      What is the effect of the Urban Heat Island phenomenon, and what are the methods used to mitigate it?

·      How can available technology be utilized for thermal mitigation and reducing the impact of the Urban Heat Island on cities?.

 

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We have conducted a rapid review of the published literature on urban space technology and applied strategies for cooling urban areas affected by the urban heat island phenomenon. We extracted relevant studies published between 2014 and 2022 from Web of Science (WoS), Scopus, and Science Direct. We have also focused on research that can be practically applied in hot and arid climates Finally, we classified the relevant papers on the basis of the focus area and presented the conclusion along with future research guidance.

 

RESULT

In this section, we group the articles analyzed in this study according to their specific areas of focus. We have classified the 1.0.

 

Reviewing The Literature On The Role Of Technology In Enhancing The Environmental Performance Of Urban Spaces

Cities worldwide are facing increasing environmental challenges due to climate change and unsustainable urban planning, resulting in urban heat island effects and their negative impacts on human health and the surrounding environment. Therefore, it has become essential to explore innovative technological solutions that contribute to enhancing the environmental performance of urban spaces, making them more sustainable and environmentally friendly. These multiple studies aim to review the available literature on the role of technology in enhancing the environmental performance of urban spaces.

Heng Zhang(24) introduced the use of cooling strategies for urban spaces in the context of climate change. Urban heat island (UHI) effects will worsen due to unsustainable urban planning. Thermal comfort is closely linked to UHI in cities. The study analyzed UHI, thermal comfort, local climate, and urban planning in recent years. Key factors include vegetation, water conditions, material reflectance, and urban form. Case studies highlighted the varying impact of features such as tree density, water features, and shading structures on outdoor thermal comfort. The study aims to guide sustainable urban research and landscape design.

Yingying Li and others(25) focused on the negative impact of Urban Heat Island (UHI) on urban ecosystems and human well-being. It strongly advocates for nature-based strategies to mitigate UHI effects. The cooling effect of Urban Blue Infrastructure (UBI) can significantly alleviate UHI impacts. The study used Water Cooling Intensity (WCI) and Water Cooling Range (WCR) to quantitatively analyze the cooling effect of UBI in Hefei city during summer. It identified crucial factors and their interactions with UBI’s cooling effect using the Geodetector model. The study provides theoretical and practical guidance for nature-based UBI protection, restoration, and planning to improve urban thermal environments. Additionally, it highlights the cooling effect of Urban Green Infrastructure (UGI), including artificial and natural water bodies, in comparison to other natural surfaces. Understanding the cooling effect of water bodies and influencing factors can enhance current insights for adaptation strategies.

Cláudia Cotrim Pezzuto and others(26) focused on developing and applying urban modification techniques worldwide to reduce urban heat and its impact. High albedo surfaces and additional vegetation are effective strategies. Simulations of low and high urban density scenarios were conducted, showing integrated mitigation strategies with vegetation and high albedo surfaces have significant cooling potential. Human-originated heat, from transportation and air conditioning, is crucial but can negate mitigation benefits.

Alchapar et al.(27) emphasized the significance of new treatments for pavements, as they cover approximately 40 % of urban surfaces. Pavements can play a major role in urban cooling strategies, with cool pavements being potential contributors. Most pavements can be classified into two main types: asphalt and concrete. Asphalt pavements are cheaper and easier to repair but have a shorter lifespan compared to concrete. Light-colored surfaces are cooler than dark ones, and cooler pavement temperatures can extend the lifespan and delay cracking. Modern pavement treatments have demonstrated their effectiveness in reducing temperatures and improving pavement durability.

Helen Elliott et al.(28) explores using green infrastructure and design solutions (GIDS) to cool urban environments and enhance city livability. GIDS manages urban energy flows, reduces urban heat, and improves green spaces. It proposes a holistic approach to create a cooler urban fabric, prioritize human well-being, and foster public engagement. GIDS can address hot conditions, promote physical activity, and support urban vitality.

Elmira Jamei et al.(29) examines shading techniques and green infrastructure as cooling strategies in tropical cities. Case studies in Malaysian cities demonstrate the impact of building heights, urban forms, and green infrastructure on wind behavior, air temperature, and thermal comfort, offering insights for urban planning and heat mitigation practices.

Luis Inostroza et al.(30), this study examines cooling strategies in a modern tropical city in Mexico. It highlights the importance of urban green spaces in mitigating urban heat and reducing the impact of the urban heat island effect. Vegetation plays a crucial role in cooling urban areas.

Chaimae Mourou and others.(31), this comprehensive study explores the evolution of cool surfaces as a mitigation strategy for urban heat island effects. It emphasizes the development of reflective materials and recommends eco-friendly and cost-effective solutions using recycled glass. Cool surfaces significantly reduce urban heat and improve environmental conditions.

MCarmen Guerrero Delgado and others.(32), this study tackled the global need for safe open spaces in the face of rising temperatures due to urban heat islands and climate change. It explored radiative solutions to improve outdoor living conditions by reducing solar radiation and surface temperatures, with an emphasis on mitigating the heat of urban heat islands.

Chrysanthi Efthymiou et al.(33) developed and tested an electro-photovoltaic sidewalk to mitigate urban heat islands. The experimental sidewalk demonstrated lower surface temperatures compared to traditional asphalt. Simulations confirmed its potential to improve the local urban climate, reducing surface and ambient temperatures significantly. Alternative energy technologies can address environmental challenges in urban spaces, both directly and indirectly impacting the local climate. ( See table 1, which includes a comparison of the ten studies)

 

Table 1. Summarizing the ten mentioned studies

Study

Summary

Heng Zhang(24)

This study explores the use of cooling strategies in urban spaces to mitigate the effects of urban heat island (UHI) in the context of climate change. It analyzes the relationship between UHI, thermal comfort, local climate, and urban planning.

Yingying Li et al.(25)

This study focuses on the negative impact of Urban Heat Island (UHI) on urban ecosystems and human well-being. It advocates for nature-based strategies, particularly Urban Blue Infrastructure (UBI), to mitigate UHI effects and improve urban thermal environments.

Cláudia Cotrim Pezzuto et al.(26)

The study aims to reduce urban heat and its impact by developing and implementing urban modification techniques worldwide. It highlights the effectiveness of high albedo surfaces and additional vegetation as cooling strategies.

Alchapar et al.(27)

This study emphasizes the importance of pavement treatments in urban cooling strategies. It discusses cool pavements and their potential to reduce temperatures and improve pavement durability.

Helen Elliott et al.(28)

The study explores the use of green infrastructure and design solutions (GIDS) to cool urban environments and enhance livability. It proposes a holistic approach to create a cooler urban fabric and prioritize human well-being.

Elmira Jamei et al.(29)

This study examines shading techniques and green infrastructure as cooling strategies in tropical cities. It investigates their impact on wind behavior, air temperature, and thermal comfort for urban planning and heat mitigation practices.

Luis Inostroza et al.(30)

The study highlights the role of urban green spaces in mitigating urban heat and reducing the urban heat island effect. It emphasizes the cooling effects of vegetation in urban areas.

Chaimae Mourou et al.(31)

This comprehensive study explores cool surfaces as a mitigation strategy for urban heat island effects. It emphasizes the development of reflective materials and eco-friendly solutions, such as using recycled glass, to reduce urban heat and improve environmental conditions.

MCarmen Guerrero Delgado et al.(32)

This study addresses the need for safe open spaces in the face of rising temperatures caused by urban heat islands and climate change. It explores radiative solutions to reduce solar radiation and surface temperatures, focusing on mitigating the heat of urban heat islands.

Chrysanthi Efthymiou et al.(33)

The study develops and tests an electro-photovoltaic sidewalk as a cooling strategy to mitigate urban heat islands. It demonstrates lower surface temperatures compared to traditional asphalt and significant potential to improve the local urban climate.

 

DISCUSSION

The reviewed studies collectively provide a comprehensive view of the Urban Heat Island (UHI) phenomenon and various strategies employed to mitigate its effects through available technology. The discussion revolves around the key findings, implications, and potential avenues for future research.

Firstly, the studies highlight the multifaceted nature of UHI and the diverse factors contributing to its exacerbation. Urbanization, characterized by the expansion of impervious surfaces and altered atmospheric composition, emerges as a central driver of elevated temperatures in urban areas. The adverse consequences on human health and the environment underscore the urgent need for effective mitigation strategies.

Nature-based solutions, as emphasized in several studies, play a pivotal role in mitigating UHI effects. Vegetation, water features, and high albedo surfaces contribute significantly to cooling urban environments. The cooling potential of Urban Blue Infrastructure (UBI) and Urban Green Infrastructure (UGI) emerges as a recurring theme, offering tangible benefits in terms of temperature reduction and environmental enhancement.

Technological interventions, such as cool pavements, smart transportation management, and reflective materials, showcase the potential for innovation in UHI mitigation. The studies collectively advocate for a holistic approach that integrates various strategies, including urban design solutions, to create more sustainable and resilient cities. The importance of green roofs, smart energy management, and cool surfaces in reducing energy consumption and enhancing thermal comfort further underscores the interconnectedness of environmental, social, and economic factors.

The studies also shed light on the regional specificity of UHI mitigation, with some focusing on tropical climates and others addressing the challenges in urban areas with high-density scenarios. This regional perspective is crucial for tailoring mitigation strategies to the unique environmental conditions of different locales.

However, despite the progress made in understanding and addressing UHI, challenges persist. The limited availability and high economic value of open spaces in urban environments, as discussed in the literature, pose obstacles to large-scale implementation of mitigation technologies. Moreover, the ongoing trend of global urbanization necessitates ongoing research and adaptive strategies to keep pace with evolving urban landscapes.

Therefore, highlighting the importance of confirming collaborative efforts among policymakers, urban planners, researchers, and the public is crucial for the effective implementation of comprehensive health security. The integration of nature-based solutions, technological innovations, and sustainable urban planning practices can create urban environments capable not only of addressing climate challenges but also of promoting the well-being of residents. Future research should explore the long-term effectiveness of implemented strategies, considering social and economic impacts and continually adapting to the dynamic nature of urban development and climate change.

In general, addressing the phenomenon of comprehensive health security requires a comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach to enhance sustainable urbanization and improve the quality of life in cities globally. This necessitates ongoing cooperation and coordination among various stakeholders to ensure the successful implementation of strategies aimed at mitigating the impacts of urban heat islands and fostering healthier urban environments.

 

Challenges

Implementing urban cooling strategies faces challenges at both the general and technological levels due to several reasons.

 

Urban Planning

1.     Building Density: In dense cities, the challenge lies in providing sufficient space to implement urban cooling strategies. Allocating the necessary space for trees, green areas, and water features can be difficult.

2.     Urban Planning: Urban cooling strategies need to be integrated into the urban planning process. This requires coordination among stakeholders and alignment of environmental, economic, and social objectives.

3.     Existing Built Environment: In already developed cities, the challenge may be in applying urban cooling strategies within existing structures. Innovative technologies and engineering solutions may be needed to adapt to and enhance the existing built environment.

4.     Cultural and Social Diversity: Urban cooling strategies should consider the needs and preferences of diverse local communities. Urban design should be inclusive and adaptable to different cultural and social orientations of the population.

5.     Balancing Elements: The balance between different elements in urban design, such as trees, green spaces, water features, and architecture, needs to be considered. This requires a balanced approach to maximize the benefits and minimize potential negative impacts.

6.     Sustainable Development: Urban cooling strategies should be included within the framework of sustainable urban development. Environmental, economic, and social factors need to be considered to achieve a balance between the current and future needs of urban communities.

7.     Addressing these challenges requires collaborative efforts among urban planners, architects, policymakers, and local communities to incorporate cooling strategies into urban design plans, promote sustainable development practices, and ensure the well-being and resilience of urban environments.

 

Technological Challenges

1.     Available Technology: Implementing urban cooling strategies requires the use of suitable and available technology. There may be challenges in accessing innovative, sustainable technologies and the necessary technology for implementing these strategies.

2.     Cost: Some available technologies for urban cooling can be costly, which can be a barrier to widespread implementation. Reducing costs and developing cost-effective technologies are crucial to making urban cooling strategies more feasible.

3.     Technological Compatibility: There may be challenges in ensuring compatibility among different technologies used in urban cooling strategies. Effective coordination and integration of these technologies are necessary to achieve maximum efficiency and desired outcomes.

4.     Overcoming these challenges requires collaboration among various sectors, including local governments, research institutions, local communities, and the private sector, to develop necessary policies, provide resources, and offer appropriate technology to achieve a sustainable and comfortable urban heat environment.

 

Environmental Challenges

1.    Impact on ecological balance: Implementation of some urban cooling strategies may lead to interference with the natural ecological balance of urban areas. There may be a negative impact on the surrounding ecosystems such as changes in soil, water, flora and fauna.

2.    Resource consumption: Some urban cooling strategies may require the consumption of large amounts of resources such as water and energy. One of the main challenges may be ensuring the sustainability of resource consumption and minimizing environmental impact.

 

Social And Cultural Challenges

1.    Awareness and encouragement: A major challenge may be to educate the public on the importance of urban cooling strategies and to encourage active participation and participation of local communities. There may be challenges in changing existing habits and behaviors and enhancing the ability to adapt to environmental changes.

2.    Balancing Needs: Urban cooling strategies may face challenges in balancing the needs of the urban environment with those of local communities and businesses. The impact of these strategies on everyone must be considered and everyone’s needs met.

 

Benefits

Increasing the environmental quality of urban spaces has several benefits and positive impacts, including:

1.     Improving public health: Providing high-quality urban spaces enhances the health of residents. Trees, green areas, and water features improve air quality by absorbing harmful gases and filtering out small particles. They also provide spaces for physical activity, recreation, and relaxation, contributing to physical and mental well-being.

2.     Enhancing air quality: Urban spaces with high environmental quality provide areas for plants, trees, and greenery, which help absorb pollutants and improve the surrounding air quality.

3.     Providing a sustainable environment: High-quality urban spaces promote biodiversity and preserve local ecosystems. Green spaces support diverse plant and animal life, contributing to environmental balance and sustainability.

4.     Mitigating urban heat island effect: Environmentally-friendly urban spaces help reduce the impact of urban heat islands. Green areas and water features help lower temperatures and provide natural ventilation, reducing negative heat-related effects in cities.

5.     Improving water quality: High-quality urban spaces provide opportunities for water drainage and absorption, reducing the formation of floods and water pollution. They also contribute to improving water quality in nearby rivers and lakes.

6.     In summary, increasing the environmental quality of urban spaces improves public health, reduces pollution, preserves environmental balance, enhances climate resilience, and improves overall quality of life in cities.

 

CONCLUSION

Urban growth and expansion have significant implications for the environment and human health. As cities expand, there is increased pressure on natural resources, leading to deforestation, habitat destruction, and loss of biodiversity. The conversion of natural land into impervious surfaces such as roads and buildings disrupt ecosystems and reduces the capacity of the environment to absorb and regulate water. This, in turn, contributes to issues like stormwater runoff, flooding, and decreased groundwater recharge. Urbanization also has negative effects on human health. The increased concentration of people in urban areas leads to higher levels of air pollution, which can have detrimental effects on respiratory and cardiovascular health. Exposure to air pollutants such as particulate matter and nitrogen dioxide is associated with increased rates of respiratory diseases, asthma, and other health issues. Urban areas also tend to experience higher temperatures due to the Urban Heat Island (UHI) effect, which can exacerbate heat-related illnesses and heat stress. The Urban Heat Island effect refers to the phenomenon where urban areas experience higher temperatures compared to surrounding rural areas. This is primarily caused by the extensive use of impervious surfaces, which absorb and retain heat, and the lack of vegetation and green spaces that provide natural cooling. The UHI effect leads to increased energy consumption for cooling buildings, elevated air pollution levels, and reduced thermal comfort for residents. To mitigate the Urban Heat Island effect, various strategies and technologies can be employed. One approach is to increase the reflectivity (albedo) of urban surfaces by using cool roofs and light-colored materials for pavements. These surfaces reflect more sunlight, reducing the absorption of heat and lowering surface temperatures. Another strategy is the incorporation of green infrastructure, such as urban parks, green roofs, and vertical gardens, which can provide shade, evaporative cooling, and enhance natural ventilation. Urban planning plays a crucial role in implementing these strategies by ensuring the integration of green spaces and cool surfaces in urban designs. Technology plays a vital role in mitigating the Urban Heat Island effect. Building Information Modeling (BIM) and Facility Management (FM) technologies enable the creation of digital twins of buildings and urban environments, allowing for efficient management and optimization of energy consumption. Sensor technology and real-time data analysis can be used to monitor and control energy usage, optimize traffic flow, and improve waste management, all of which contribute to reducing the environmental impact of urban spaces. Additionally, mobile applications and online platforms can be utilized to disseminate information and promote sustainable practices among urban residents, raising environmental awareness. However, implementing urban cooling strategies faces challenges. Dense cities often struggle to find sufficient space for green areas and water features. Integrating cooling strategies into existing built environments can be challenging and may require innovative solutions. Urban planning processes need to consider and prioritize environmental objectives alongside economic and social goals. Additionally, addressing cultural and social diversity is essential to ensure the acceptance and effectiveness of urban cooling strategies. In conclusion, urban growth and expansion have significant environmental and health implications. The Urban Heat Island effect exacerbates these issues, but technology and strategic urban planning offer opportunities for mitigation. By incorporating cool surfaces, green infrastructure, and leveraging technological advancements, cities can reduce their environmental footprint, improve thermal comfort, and enhance the overall quality of life for urban residents.

 

RECOMMENDATIONS

1.     Enhancing Green Spaces: Utilizing lush greenery and prioritizing biodiversity will contribute to providing a more sustainable and attractive environment. Developing well-shaded seating and relaxation areas can also be implemented for improved urban aesthetics and functionality.

2.     Adopting Water Feature Design is considered a crucial measure to enhance the thermal environment in outdoor spaces. The research emphasizes that incorporating water features in outdoor spaces plays a significant role in reducing temperatures and promoting thermal comfort. Fountains contribute to cooling the surrounding environment through water evaporation, providing shade, and offering aesthetic visual effects.

3.     Urban officials must balance their citizens’ immediate needs to stay cool with the long-term impacts of the urban heat island, especially concerning technologies like air conditioning.

4.     Developing a plan for urban cooling operations involves the implementation of cooling measures in urban spaces through various public and private entities. Having a comprehensive plan for cooling operations (or an urban heat mitigation plan) is essential to clarify the local need for urban cooling, establish goals, and create a means to measure progress. This is necessary for organizing strategies and actions toward cooler cities. Cooling plans should be developed with the involvement of a wide range of stakeholders and regularly updated to facilitate integration with other city strategies related to climate response, planning, development, resilience, and sustainability.

5.     Identifying the areas and populations most vulnerable to heat is foundational for a variety of targeted interventions, including communication and outreach efforts, incentives, and programs providing improved access to cooling and shelters from extreme heat. Vulnerable populations, particularly the poor and marginalized, bear disproportionate burdens of high temperatures, residing in neighborhoods lacking greenery and substandard buildings. In rapidly growing cities, this may occur without access to a social safety net of friends and family. Cities aiming to maximize the benefits of urban cooling efforts should plan to map the local heat hotspot (such as surface and air temperatures during day and night) and identify where populations most vulnerable to heat stress live and work. This information can serve as a basis for various targeted interventions, including incentive programs and initiatives providing improved access to cooling or the accumulation of shelters from extreme heat.

6.     Showcasing urban cooling strategies through pilot projects serves to test a broader approach to urban cooling, increasing awareness of urban cooling, building confidence, and providing tangible experiences for policymakers, the public, and other stakeholders. Measuring and monitoring these projects generate invaluable local data to guide decision-making, capacity building, and stakeholder engagement.

 

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FINANCING

None.

 

CONFLICT OF INTEREST

None.

 

AUTHORSHIP CONTRIBUTION

Conceptualization: Osama Laith Ibrahim, Younis Mahmood Mohammed Saleem.

Research: Osama Laith Ibrahim, Younis Mahmood Mohammed Saleem.

Writing - original draft: Osama Laith Ibrahim, Younis Mahmood Mohammed Saleem.

Writing - revision and editing: Osama Laith Ibrahim, Younis Mahmood Mohammed Saleem.