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A geographical information system model for creating bioclimatic maps - examples from a high, mid-latitude city
Marie K Svensson1, Sofia Thorsson, Sven Lindqvist
1Göteborg University, Physical Geography, Earth Sciences Centre, Box 460, SE-405 30 Göteborg, Sweden. marie.svensson@gvc.gu.se
International Journal of Biometeorology
|March 21, 2003
Summary
This study introduces a GIS-based method for creating bioclimatic maps, showing significant temperature variations in urban areas. These maps help urban planners understand thermal comfort for outdoor activities and energy use.
Area of Science:
- Biometeorology
- Urban Climatology
- Geographical Information Systems (GIS)
Background:
- Bioclimatic mapping is crucial for understanding urban thermal environments.
- Few studies have focused on high-latitude urban areas.
- Existing models often lack comprehensive input data.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a novel GIS-based method for generating large-scale bioclimatic maps.
- To map the spatial distribution of Physiological Equivalent Temperature (PET) in an urban setting.
- To provide data for urban planning and public health initiatives.
Main Methods:
- Integrating meteorological data with land use, elevation, and coastal proximity data.
- Utilizing a Geographical Information System (GIS) for spatial analysis.
- Combining air temperature and wind maps to calculate thermal components.
Main Results:
- Generated bioclimatic maps for Göteborg, Sweden, during July.
- Observed significant spatial variations in PET within the urban area.
- Identified highest PET in central built-up zones and lowest in coastal/green areas.
Conclusions:
- The GIS-based model effectively visualizes bioclimatic conditions in urban areas.
- The findings offer valuable insights for urban planners and policymakers.
- The method is adaptable and utilizes readily available data for non-static mapping.