Abstract
This study aimed to propose a way to utilize vulnerability assessment effectively in policy-making by conducting policy-related assessment of the thermal environment. For this purpose, a variety of indices concerning thermal vulnerability assessment were reviewed, and finally, 15 indices were selected. In addition, adaptation policies for climate change applied to Korean cities were synthesized and examined to establish policies for improving thermal environments which correspond to 15 indices. Finally, a framework consisting of five areas (improvement of the atmospheric environment, expansion of eco-friendly buildings, management of the surface, cool spot creation and revitalization of communities), 15 indices and 25 policies was proposed. As a result, 15 vulnerability maps based on the standardized indices and a comprehensive map with four classes were established for Daegu Metropolitan City in South Korea. Based on the maps, Guji-myeon and Ansim-1-dong were found to be the most vulnerable areas. Hence, the causes of the thermal environment vulnerability and the policies for improving urban thermal environment were analyzed in these two areas using the proposed framework. Guji-myeon was necessary to more actively implement policies regarding the improvement of the atmospheric environment, management of the surface, and revitalization of communities. To improve the thermal environment of Ansim-1-dong, active policy implementation was required in all five areas. The results of this study are expected to contribute to the effective establishment of thermal environment policies by policy-makers.
Highlights
Various environmental problems, such as deterioration of the thermal environment, flood occurrence, and air pollution have intensified in urban areas owing to the effects of global warming resulting from climate change
This study shows a method for the strategic application of climate change adaptation policies through policy-related assessment of thermal environment vulnerability, and it is expected to contribute to the effective establishment of thermal environment policies by policy-makers
To present the applicable policies in Korea, we reviewed the thermal environment improvement policies presented in the First Implementation Plan for Climate Change Adaptation Measures (2012–2016), which was established in 16 Korean cities
Summary
Various environmental problems, such as deterioration of the thermal environment, flood occurrence, and air pollution have intensified in urban areas owing to the effects of global warming resulting from climate change. Heat transfer from the surface to the atmosphere has increased because of the change in thermal properties of surface materials [1,2,3]. The total area that reflects and absorbs sunlight has expanded owing to the high heat capacity of building materials, such as concrete. Higher heat absorption of buildings and lower radiation cooling have led to high building temperatures, which increases air conditioning usage and artificial exhaust airflow [4,5,6,7,8,9]. It is necessary to locate areas vulnerable to thermal environment intensification due to climate change, identify the causes of the vulnerability, and establish policies to improve the situation
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