Viability of public spaces in cities under increasing heat: A transdisciplinary approach. (August 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Foshag, Kathrin; Aeschbach, Nicole; Höfle, Bernhard; Winkler, Raino; Siegmund, Alexander; Aeschbach, Werner
• Is Part Of: Sustainable cities and society. Volume 59(2020)
• Publication Date: 2020-08
• Subjects: Climate change adaptation -- Urban climate -- Urban environment -- Transdisciplinary sustainability research -- Heat stress -- Public places -- Health improvement; Sustainable urban development -- Periodicals; Sustainable buildings -- Periodicals; Urban ecology (Sociology) -- Periodicals; 307.76
• DOI: 10.1016/j.scs.2020.102215
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2210-6707

Abstract

Highlights: Integrated transdisciplinary set of methods to co-design climate change adapta-tion. Heat adaptation measures for public squares in Heidelberg, Germany. Measures have a regulating effect on the microclimate and increase well-being. Local actors are indispensable partners in transdisciplinary projects. Abstract: Cities are particularly sensitive to the effects of climate change, causing an increasing incidence of heat waves. Extreme temperatures can impair the use of public spaces in cities, as heat stress endangers human well-being and health. Identifying suitable adaptation measures to maintain the full functionality of public spaces requires a multidimensional approach, accounting for interrelated scientific, social, and practical aspects. As one result we introduce an inter- and transdisciplinary concept that addresses the challenge of adapting public spaces to climate change. Additionally we present a pilot study from Heidelberg, Germany, where a new, sustainable urban quarter experienced more pronounced heat stress than the historic city centre in the hot and dry summer of 2018. The study shows the suitability of our approach to identify appropriate heat adaptation measures. Solar potential modelling and mental map surveys proved to be particularly effective methods. We find that adaptation measures generate synergy effects by improving both climatic and social conditions.