Physical and geographic analysis of the urban cooling potential

Abstract: The performance of a number of urban cooling techniques has been thoroughly studied by the scientific community. However, decision-makers lack the tools to spatialize their deployment as part of their urban cooling and climate change adaptation strategies. Among other indicators, a spatial assessment of the cooling potential for a technique in a given area is lacking. To this end, we analyze the physical mechanisms on which these techniques are based and identify corresponding geographical indicators that influence their cooling performance. Solar irradiance, existing material properties and underground infrastructure stand out as essential indicators for this purpose.