Name
Quantifying microclimate moderation by shade trees in suburban and light industrial areas
Date & Time
Friday, May 23, 2025, 1:00 PM - 1:15 PM
Description

This study evaluates the effectiveness of roadside shade trees to moderate urban microclimates in suburban and light industrial areas. Following a paired sampling design, meteorological conditions were measured at six locations across Peel and York Regions, Ontario. At each location, tree-shaded areas were compared with adjacent full-sun conditions. Data was collected at 10-minute intervals over one-week periods during the summer of 2024. The analysis incorporated GIS-derived land cover metrics, tree canopy volume, and tree-sun orientation as covariates. Linear mixed-effects models accounting for temporal autocorrelation were used to assess Wet Bulb Global Temperature differences between sun and tree-shaded conditions. Results demonstrate significant temperature moderation under tree canopies, with cooling effects associated with the extent of impervious surface, tree canopy characteristics and vegetation placement. These findings provide quantitative support for strategic urban forestry initiatives to mitigate heat stress in sprawling suburban environments.

Location Name
Mackenzie (ME) 3165
Session Type
Oral Presentation
Abstract ID
263
Speaker Name
Andrew A. Millward
Speaker Organization
Toronto Metropolitan University
Session Name
CS137-B Forests, Forest Ecology, and Wildland Fires