Green and blue spaces as interactive solutions for tropical climate changes adaptation: case of Metropolitan São Paulo, Brazil

Changes in urban land, such as increased building density, reduced green cover, and increased use of materials in façades and pavements, promote the emergence of heat islands and extreme weather events such as floods and landslides. The coexistence of green and blue infrastructure in the urban landscape is an excellent nature-based solution for urban heat mitigation. This study aims to quantify how much the coexistence of green and blue infrastructure can improve thermal comfort and reduce heat stress. Methods: a) select urban parameters in three areas:  park, central area and south square; b) collect environmental data during three seasons. (data on air temperature and humidity for 20 days in 4 areas of cities); c) quantify thermal comfort for each area using RayMan Pro; d) Simulate environmental parameters using Envi-Met for the current and future scenarios (with trees and a fountain). Results of field measurements show that the central square has 3 C more heat than the park, and the park has around 15% more humidity than the central square. The simulation results show that integrating green and blue spaces in parks or square areas can reduce heat stress during the day and maintain humidification during the night, collaborating to reduce urban heat islands. In urban design, it is essential to consider the interaction of vegetation and water founts, lakes, etc., as well as wind ventilation. Planners, architects, and other professionals must consider these urban design strategies in requalifying city areas. Mackpesquisa and Suzano City Council funded this research project.