3D City Digital Twin Simulation to Mitigate Heat Risk of Urban Heat Islands

Abstract

Consecutive high-temperature days, a phenomenon known as heatwaves, are becoming more frequent and intense due to anthro- pogenic climate change. Padua City, characterized by significant urban soil sealing, is particularly vulnerable to these changes and the exacerbation of Urban Heat Island effects. This study integrates Urban Digital Twin technology and Internet of Things concepts within a three-dimensional modelling environment to develop a Nature-Based Solutions scenario simulation tool. This tool is designed to address climate-manmade problems in Padua City. Using sensor-derived air temperature and relative humidity data, our approach provides detailed micro-climate information to identify heat-prone areas in Padua City. According to this in- formation, the first pilot project test of scenario development was selected to assess how best to achieve a cooling effect through the use of green-blue infrastructure in order to combat the heat hazard in Padua City. Furthermore, this study addresses the urgency of developing Nature-Based Solutions in Padua City’s planning to reduce the heat effect during heatwaves.