Evaluation of thermal comfort and urban heat island through cool paving materials using ENVI-Met

Abstract

In urban literature, outdoor thermal comfort in hot climates is affected by different aspects, such as the size of the built environment and the variety of ground surface materials. Developing the outdoor thermal environment is crucial for achieving a balanced microclimate and creating a sustainable open space. This paper aims to provide thermal comfort and to promote sustainable urban development in Alexandria city (Egypt). The city faces problem of an increasing urban heat island, which influences the behavioral patterns of pedestrians. The case study of El Mosheir Street measured different simulated scenarios using ENVI-met 4.0 to achieve maximum thermal comfort. The results provided solutions through paving materials that present a high percentage of the city’s urban areas. The paper explained the concept of the urban heat Islands phenomenon and its mitigation strategies using paving materials.