From Temperature Observations to Targeted Action: Data-Driven Climate Adaptation Strategies in Hesse, Germany

Rising urban temperatures and the push for densification have intensified the need for robust climate adaptation measures. In partnership with the federal state of Hesse, we developed a participative, data-driven framework to identify and address locations requiring heat mitigation and the protection of cool zones. Our approach begins by pinpointing universal hot spots and cold spots across a 100 m grid, using harmonized temperature metrics to capture both diurnal and nocturnal temperature patterns. This combines heat stress metrics with land surface temperatures as an indicator of an unbalanced heat exchange at the surface. Based on a transdisciplinary approach with local and state-level stakeholders, we generated a simplified version of the local climate zones, ensuring that the universal hotspots are grounded in realistic urban morphology patterns.

Building upon this spatial assessment, we first prioritize locations for mitigation actions based on selected metrics such as vulnerable populations. Then we evaluate the capacity of each location to implement climate adaptation measures by analyzing multiple contextual indices. High-resolution (20 cm) aerial imagery is used to quantify land cover, while green volume, NDVI, and other green-indicators offer deeper insights into the specific nature of each site’s climate vulnerability. We again incorporate our simplified local climate zones as well as a newly developed city structure classification to refine our understanding of how these environmental characteristics interact with urban structures.

Throughout the process, continuous engagement with local and regional authorities has been key, ensuring that the method reflects real-world priorities and constraints. By aligning rigorous, multi-scale data analyses with participatory decision-making, this framework not only locates areas in urgent need of adaptation but also guides the selection of tailored, actionable measures for long-term climate resilience.