The influence of vegetation on the thermal comfort of open transitional spaces

Urban Heat Island (UHI) is a complex phenomenon intensified by the lack of vegetation and suboptimal urban design, leading to extreme temperatures during summer. Thermal comfort, influenced by both physical and psychological factors, can be significantly improved with the presence of vegetation, as previous studies suggest. Many studies focus on the analysis of urban areas; however, transitional spaces between buildings, which differ from urban canyons, still lack specific analysis.

This study investigates the UHI effect, thermal comfort, and the essential role of vegetation in mitigating the impacts of the urban climate in Seville. Specifically, the research focuses on a microclimate analysis within a residual space between buildings in the “Huerta del Carmen” residential neighborhood. Thermal data measurements were collected and used to validate a simulation of various vegetation distribution scenarios using ENVI-met software.

The analysis of different nature-based solution (NBS) scenarios reveals that effective improvement in thermal comfort through vegetation requires meticulous planning and organization, informed by previous research results. The findings indicate that trees and other vegetation elements, when distributed in a dispersed pattern towards the west of the residual space, significantly reduce air temperature and enhance thermal comfort. Additionally, this distribution improves air quality.

The implications of this study are significant for sustainable urban design in Seville and similar urban areas, emphasizing the necessity of integrating vegetation into urban planning to create more livable and sustainable environments. In conclusion, this study provides a valuable guide for future urban interventions, underscoring the critical role of vegetation in enhancing urban environmental quality and mitigating the adverse effects of extreme weather conditions.