Evaluating Outdoor Thermal Comfort Using a Mixed-Method to Improve the Environmental Quality of a University Campus

Nasim Eslamirad, Abel Sepúlveda, Francesco De Luca and Kimmo Sakari Lylykangas
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Nasim Eslamirad: FinEst Centre for Smart Cities, Tallinn University of Technology, 19086 Tallinn, Estonia
Abel Sepúlveda: Department of Civil Engineering and Architecture, Academy of Architecture and Urban Studies, Tallinn University of Technology, 19086 Tallinn, Estonia
Francesco De Luca: Department of Civil Engineering and Architecture, Academy of Architecture and Urban Studies, Tallinn University of Technology, 19086 Tallinn, Estonia
Kimmo Sakari Lylykangas: Department of Civil Engineering and Architecture, Academy of Architecture and Urban Studies, Tallinn University of Technology, 19086 Tallinn, Estonia

Energies, 2022, vol. 15, issue 4, 1-26

Abstract: Thermal comfort in cities is increasingly becoming a concern and comfortable places can be highly valuable for a variety of activities. Our investigation aims to explore how to improve the quality of cities by considering the relationship between microclimatic conditions, thermal sensation, and human preferences. The case study conducted in the open areas of Tallinn University of Technology (TalTech) campus, which is quite populated by visitors, staff, and students. We used a mixed-methods approach to assess outdoor thermal comfort, based on qualitative and quantitative findings of the relationships between the measured weather conditions and the results of thermal comfort assessment through the PET index and subjectively perceived thermal sensation. In the qualitative part, data was collected through semi-structured interviews. The main conclusions from the interviews were used to design a survey and the samples. Based on the results, it was possible to identify places that offer different levels of thermal comfort. Thus, the study helps to improve thermal comfort at the campus, which is one of the goals of the Green Transition project to make the campus fully sustainable. Moreover, the methodology is applicable in different urban areas to improve urban health and sustainability and create resilient urban environments.

Keywords: survey; semi structured interview; outdoor thermal comfort optimization; urban simulation (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: Q Q0 Q4 Q40 Q41 Q42 Q43 Q47 Q48 Q49 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2022
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (1)

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