A multi-faceted, integrated methodological approach to identify hotspots of combined urban environmental pressures in the climate change context

Abstract

Urban sprawl poses significant challenges, including pollution, urban heat stress, and biodiversity loss, necessitating proactive solutions for climate adaptation and urban resilience. This study presents an integrated methodological approach to identify urban hotspots of combined environmental pressures in the Athens Metropolitan Area (AMA), a densely populated region experiencing heightened climate vulnerabilities. Utilizing satellite data, numerical models, and geospatial analysis, the study focuses on three main urban pressures: urban heat, air pollution, and lack of green urban areas (GUAs). The approach offers a comprehensive spatial and temporal assessment of Land Surface Temperature (LST) to identify urban heat islands (UHI). Concurrently, air quality data are analyzed to map pollution hotspots, considering the exacerbating effects of heatwaves. The accessibility and distribution of GUAs are evaluated through the 15-min city concept, highlighting areas deficient in green spaces. The combined data-driven hotspot mapping facilitates the identification of the most vulnerable urban sites, providing essential insights for policy and decision-makers. The proposed methodology's adaptability allows for its application across various research disciplines and spatial scales, enhancing urban resilience through targeted interventions, such as Nature-based Solutions (NbS). This consolidated framework for assessing and integrating multiple environmental pressures is a vital tool for urban strategic planning. It addresses the complex interplay of urban factors, offering a proactive, transparent, and cost-effective approach to mitigate environmental pressures and promote sustainable urban development amidst the ongoing climate crisis. The methodology's replicability underscores its potential for broad application, contributing to the global effort in achieving urban sustainability and resilience.