Multi-scale climate-sensitive planning framework to mitigate urban heat island effect: A case study in Singapore

Abstract

This study developed a climate-sensitive planning framework to assess Urban Heat Island (UHI) intensity and wind potential, and apply assessment results into urban planning practice. Multi-scale environmental assessments and mitigation were interlinked from the urban design perspective. Three steps are conducted: (1) UHI intensity assessment to identify hot spots, (2) urban wind assessment to evaluate mitigation potential, and (3) urban design implications. A case study in Singapore was conducted to demonstrate the application of the framework. Geographic Information System-based tools that are accessible to designers and planners were used to conduct a coherent assessment-mitigation planning workflow. The empirical model between sky view factor and air temperature increment was modified by local data to be applied in Singapore. East Singapore, with a UHI intensity of 3 °C to 4 °C, was identified as the hot spot of UHI. Natural ventilation potential of the identified area was evaluated, and air paths were identified through urban permeability map based on frontal area density calculation. Climate-sensitive urban design prototypes were thus proposed by balancing climate considerations and urban planning complex (i.e., site structure, density distribution, land use pattern). Research outputs from this study increase the engagement of climate considerations in the decision-making of urban design process.