Dissertation
The potential role of green infrastructure in the mitigation of the urban heat island
Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.), Drexel University
Aug 2017
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.17918/etd-7596
Abstract
Extreme precipitation and extreme heat are two of the most significant environmental challenges facing urban environment this decade. Current climate change predictions estimate extreme events will increase in intensity and frequency, making cities more susceptible to fatalities. Nature-based solutions can be used to adapt and mitigate the impact of extreme events. Over the past decade, cities have installed stormwater green infrastructure (SGI) to capture, treat, infiltrate, and evapotranspire stormwater. The aggressive installation of these facilities has introduced new vegetation into the urban environment, creating the opportunity for SGI to reduce urban temperatures through evapotranspiration and shading. Previous research has focused on the performance of SGI to capture stormwater and the ability of vegetation to reduce temperatures, separately. However, this dissertation is a comprehensive study, exploring the multiple benefits SGI can provide. The aim of this study was to quantify the role of SGI in the reduction of air temperatures. The microclimate and surface energy balance of two ground level bioretention SGI facilities and one green roof were analyzed. Furthermore, a 3D microclimate model simulated the extent of influence of individual and aggregate SGI facilities. Results of this thesis can be used by neighborhood planners and designers to justify the implementation of SGI facilities in heat vulnerable neighborhoods. Design recommendations explain how to achieve the maximum SGI benefits available in neighborhoods that are located in both heat vulnerable and priority stormwater watersheds.
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Details
- Title
- The potential role of green infrastructure in the mitigation of the urban heat island
- Creators
- Lauren A. Smalls-Mantey - DU
- Contributors
- Franco Montalto (Advisor) - Drexel University (1970-)
- Awarding Institution
- Drexel University
- Degree Awarded
- Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)
- Publisher
- Drexel University; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Number of pages
- xvi, 176 pages
- Resource Type
- Dissertation
- Language
- English
- Academic Unit
- Civil/Architectural/Environmental Engineering (1970-2026); College of Engineering (1970-2026); Drexel University
- Other Identifier
- 7596; 991014632667404721