In an era where urban heat islands are becoming increasingly prevalent, a recent study conducted by Wasiska Iyati from the Department of Architecture at Universitas Brawijaya Malang sheds light on the critical role that street median parks play in moderating local microclimates in hot-humid regions. The research, published in ‘ARTEKS: Jurnal Teknik Arsitektur’, highlights how these green spaces can significantly influence the thermal environment, offering valuable insights for architects, urban planners, and the construction sector.
The study meticulously analyzed three street median parks in Malang, Indonesia, using thermal imaging technology to compare the surface temperatures of hardscape and softscape elements. The findings revealed stark contrasts: stone and paving materials exhibited alarmingly high surface temperatures, with coral stone reaching up to 43.6 °C in Ijen. In contrast, areas with grass and trees recorded much cooler temperatures, averaging around 28.53 °C. “These results underscore the importance of integrating vegetation into urban designs, especially in climates that are hot and humid,” Iyati remarked, emphasizing the need for sustainable construction practices.
As cities continue to expand, the implications of this research are profound. The construction industry is poised to embrace these findings by prioritizing the incorporation of green spaces in urban planning. By selecting materials that mitigate heat absorption and integrating more vegetation, developers can create environments that not only enhance aesthetic appeal but also improve the overall quality of life for residents. This could lead to a surge in demand for sustainable building materials and design solutions that focus on environmental resilience.
Iyati’s research also opens the door for innovative landscaping practices that can be tailored to local climates, potentially influencing policy decisions regarding urban green spaces. As cities grapple with the challenges posed by climate change, the insights gained from this study could serve as a blueprint for future developments, advocating for a harmonious balance between urbanization and nature.
The study’s findings resonate with the growing trend towards sustainability in construction, where the emphasis is not solely on economic growth but also on environmental stewardship. The construction sector stands at a crossroads, and by adopting strategies that promote green open spaces, it can play a pivotal role in shaping healthier urban environments.
For those interested in exploring the detailed findings and implications of this research, it is available in ‘ARTEKS: Jurnal Teknik Arsitektur’, which translates to ‘Arts: Journal of Architectural Engineering’. More information about Wasiska Iyati and her work can be found at Universitas Brawijaya Malang. As the industry evolves, it is clear that the lessons learned from this study will be instrumental in guiding future construction practices in hot-humid climates.
