The structural model for thermal comfort based on perceptions individuals in open urban spaces

Abstract

Thermal comfort in urban spaces has gain significance in recent years. So far, thermal comfort has been evaluated through observing and recording climatic data. This study aims at evaluating thermal comfort using perceptions of individuals as the main users of open urban spaces. It aimed to develop a structural model to rank environmental and climatic factors in order of their significance and impact on thermal comfort within open urban spaces through structural equations modeling (SEM) using partial least squares (PLS). To this end, 500 questionnaires were distributed among experts in this area, and the completed questionnaires were collected and analyzed. According to the results, air temperature, wind speed, relative humidity, and radiation temperature had the greatest impact on outdoor thermal comfort. In contrast, the emissivity of materials and placement in open spaces, surface transparency, and material texture had the least impact on thermal comfort in open urban spaces. The importance of this research work is further highlighted considering the role of presence in open urban spaces in the quality of life and the significant impact of thermal comfort on the improved quality of such spaces. The urban specialists, especially experts of open urban spaces, may use the results of this study to take measures for improving the quality of life of citizens.