The urban morphology classification under local climate zone scheme based on the improved method - A case study of Changsha, China

Abstract

Generating local climate zone (LCZ) maps has been a new way for understanding urban morphology recently. So far, LCZ mapping has two major methods. WUDAPT workflow is widely used because of time-saving mapping process, while GIS stream is more complex and has obstacles such as lack of localized LCZ parameters, difficulty of parameter collection and unclear mapping specifications. Based on the original LCZ scheme, the study aims to fill the research gap by adopting GIS-based rules to identify urban morphology using multi-source dataset. Firstly, the study adjusts the LCZ types and LCZ parameters according to the current situation of Changsha. Secondly, a comprehensive set of LCZ parameters are calculated and evaluated, including Building Height (BH), Building Surface Fraction (BSF), Floor Area Ratio (FAR), Sky View Factor (SVF), Street Canyon Ratio (SCR), Impervious Surface Fraction (ISF), Pervious Surface Fraction (PSF), Tree Information (TH), Terrain Roughness (TR) and Albedo (AL). Thirdly, each 250 m × 250 m cell is classified according to the LCZ parameter threshold. The result indicates a higher OA (84.40%) of GIS stream comparing WUDAPT workflow. This study provides a clear depiction of improved GIS stream, which contributes to the development of LCZ mapping and also provides support for climate-sensitive urban development.