Laura Kleerekoper

Climate adaptation strategies: achieving insight in microclimate effects of redevelopment options

Purpose – Due to the predicted global temperature rise and local expansion and densification of cities, Urban Heat Islands (UHI) are likely to increase in the Netherlands. As spatial characteristics of a city influence its climate, urban design could be deployed to mitigate the combined effects of climate change and UHIs. Although cities are already experiencing problems during warm-weather periods, no clear spatial means or strategies are available for urban designers to alleviate heat stress. The paper aims to discuss these issues. Design/methodology/approach – There is a lack of knowledge on cooling effects that can be achieved through urban design in Dutch neighbourhoods. In this paper, the cooling effects of various design measures are compared on the level of urban blocks and neighbourhoods, with a focus on a 1960s neighbourhood in Amsterdam-West. The cooling effects are simulated by means of the microclimate model ENVI-met, here the effects on air temperature and physiological equivalent temperatur...

Selection Support Framework Fostering Resilience Based on Neighbourhood Typologies

Selecting climate adaptation measures through a straightforward approach: that is possible with the selection support framework presented in this paper. The framework results from Dutch urban design studies aiming to adapt to climate change. The framework includes adaptation measures for eight neighbourhood typologies on the scale of a street, square or building block. Numerous case studies provided input for the selection support framework. Based on this scientific work the framework provides an easy indication of climate adaptation opportunities, with focus on heat, and can be adapted to fit typical neighbourhoods in any country. The selection support framework enables urban professionals to select a set of climate adaptation solutions tailored to typical characteristics of a neighbourhood typology.