The Impact of Street Trees on Temperature Reduction in a Nature-Based Climate Adaptation Program in George Town, Malaysia

Street trees can significantly reduce urban temperatures, potentially averting life-threatening heat levels and lowering energy costs. A study on George Town, Malaysia, found that introducing street trees could lower the Universal Thermal Climate Index (UTCI) by up to 7 °C between 2000 and 2050, with greater reductions observed in streets oriented NW–SE planted with multiple tree rows. Even a single row of larger trees on SW–NE-oriented streets achieved a 5 °C reduction between 2023 and 2050. The research used 3D modeling and parametric simulations to assess temperature impacts under different scenarios, highlighting the importance of tree planting strategies in climate adaptation. These findings offer critical guidance for urban planning in Malaysia.

Castelo, S., Bussolotti, V. M., Pellegrini, I., Ferreira, F., Ismail, N. A., Poggi, F., & Amado, M. (2024). The Impact of Street Trees on Temperature Reduction in a Nature-Based Climate Adaptation Program in George Town, Malaysia. Climate, 12(10), 154. https://doi.org/10.3390/cli12100154