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The Cooling Effect of Canopy Cover and Surface Type: Measuring Urban Heat Island Mitigation in Nakhon Si Thammarat, Thailand
Organization(s):Srithammaratsuksa School
Country:Thailand
Student(s):Ms. Arisa Pramkasin, Ms. Chanidapa Bensalaman, Ms. Duangporn Kumphaphat, Ms. Jittanan Na Bangchang, Ms. Kankanit Ketkul, Ms. Kanokporn Rattanasombun, Mr. Nathakorn Sukwattana, Ms. Natthaporn Kueasen, Ms. Phariyapha Siriphuttinan, Ms. Phetcharaphorn Pantha, Ms. Phimnapa Suntamit, Ms. Phromphiriya Chuenchoksan, Ms. Pimchanok Somkaew, Ms. Piyatida Rattananok, Ms. Poonyapa Laoongkaew, Ms. Rinrada Songpram, Ms. Thanyalak Jutin.
Grade Level:Middle School (grades 6-8, ages 11-14)
GLOBE Educator(s):Patipon Thawornnuwong
Contributors:Assoc.Prof.Dr.Krisanadej Jaorensutasinee, Assoc.Prof.Dr.Mullica Jaroensutasinee, Mr. Babey Dimla Tonny, Center of Excellence for Ecoinformatics, School of Science, Walailak University, Thailand.
Report Type(s):International Virtual Science Symposium Report
Protocols:Biometry (including Tree Height), Land Cover Classification
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Presentation Poster:
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Language(s):English
Date Submitted:02/02/2025
This pioneering study delves into the relationship between canopy cover, tree height, and surface temperatures in Nakhon Si Thammarat, Thailand. Our aim is to unravel how vegetation mitigates the effects of urban heat islands (UHI). Using densiometers for canopy cover measurement, clinometers and the Globe Protocol for tree height, and infrared thermometers for surface temperature data, we compared different land cover types (e.g., Dry Ground, Grass, Concrete, Metal Roof, Pond/Lake, Asphalt Road, Tall Shrubs, Trees) to assess their cooling potential. The results, which show that areas with higher canopy cover and taller trees exhibit significantly lower surface temperatures, underscore the pivotal role of green infrastructure in urban planning. This study provides actionable insights for reducing urban heat and improving environmental sustainability.