Assessing Microclimate and Green Space at Nawroz University Using Climate Model ENVI-Met Simulation

Abstract

Microclimates are important for understanding the impact of urban areas on the environment. Although often overlooked, educational campuses cover large metropolitan areas that contribute to environmental harm in cities. This research focuses on studying the microclimate characteristics of Nawroz University’s campus in Duhok City, Iraq. The study uses ENVI-met software to assess current conditions and a proposed Green-Belt (GB) scenario. The analysis focuses on mean radiant temperature (MRT) and air temperature at four specific times (4 a.m., 8 a.m., 2 p.m., and 10 p.m.). A comparison is made between a Baseline scenario and a Green-Belt scenario. The Baseline scenario shows high temperatures on sun-exposed surfaces. The Green-Belt scenario demonstrates temperature reductions at 2 p.m. up to 8°C, highlighting the importance of vegetation in mitigating heat. Temperature reductions of 3°C to 5°C were also observed at 8 a.m., underscoring the cooling benefits of the proposed vegetation. The results from the Baseline scenario indicate that surfaces exposed to the sun with low albedo have higher temperatures. Vegetation in urban planning improves campus thermal comfort, reducing urban heat island effects. The study highlighted green infrastructure potential in creating sustainable urban environments, notably in regions transitioning to sheltered areas adjacent to trees.