Thermal Comfort Differences Between Adults and Children in Hot and Humid Region

With rising urban temperatures, understanding thermal comfort variations among different demographic groups is critical for creating inclusive and thermally resilient outdoor spaces. This study investigates the thermal perception and adaptive behaviors of adults and children in urban parks within a hot-humid climate. Field measurements and surveys were conducted in four urban parks in Tainan, Taiwan, from July 2023 to May 2024. A total of 39 field campaigns were carried out, with 567 adult and 375 child participants.  Environmental monitoring was performed at multiple heights, including 80 cm—representing a child’s stature—to assess variations in microclimatic conditions experienced by different age groups. Key recorded parameters included air temperature, humidity, and black globe temperature, along with personal factors such as clothing insulation, height, weight, age, and activity levels. Surveys collected data on thermal sensation, perspiration, and behavioral adaptations to heat.

A novel aspect of this study is the incorporation of clothing and metabolic rate as dynamic variables in thermal comfort calculations, rather than relying on fixed values. The findings highlight distinct differences in thermal perception and adaptive behaviors between adults and children, emphasizing the need for age-inclusive urban park design. This study provides designers with valuable references for creating thermally comfortable public spaces, reflecting the actual thermal comfort of people engaging in recreational activities in urban parks.