Thesis Abstract

Abstract
Urban heat island (UHI) effect is a well-documented phenomenon characterized by higher temperatures in urban areas compared to their rural surroundings. With rapid urbanization and growing concerns about climate change, understanding and mitigating the UHI effect have become critical issues for sustainable urban development. This thesis aims to analyze the urban heat island effect in a rapidly growing city, focusing on the factors contributing to the phenomenon and exploring potential strategies for mitigation. The study begins with an introduction to the concept of urban heat islands, providing a background of the UHI effect and its implications for urban environments. The problem statement highlights the significance of addressing the UHI effect in the context of a rapidly growing city, where urbanization is exacerbating heat-related challenges. The objectives of the study include investigating the drivers of the UHI effect, assessing its impacts on local climate and residents, and identifying effective strategies for reducing urban heat island intensity. Limitations of the study are acknowledged, including constraints related to data availability, time, and resources. The scope of the study is defined in terms of the geographical area of focus, the timeframe of analysis, and the specific aspects of the urban heat island effect that will be examined. The significance of the study lies in its potential to inform urban planning and policy-making efforts aimed at creating more resilient and sustainable cities in the face of climate change. The structure of the thesis is outlined, detailing the organization of chapters and the flow of content from the introduction to the conclusion. Definitions of key terms related to urban heat islands are provided to ensure clarity and consistency in terminology throughout the study. Chapter two presents a comprehensive literature review on urban heat islands, covering key concepts, theories, and previous research findings related to the phenomenon. The review synthesizes existing knowledge on the drivers, impacts, and mitigation strategies of the UHI effect, setting the stage for the empirical analysis that follows. Chapter three describes the research methodology employed in the study, including data collection methods, analytical techniques, and sampling procedures. The chapter outlines the steps taken to investigate the urban heat island effect in the selected city, detailing the research design and approach used to achieve the study objectives. Chapter four presents the findings of the empirical analysis, discussing the factors contributing to the urban heat island effect in the rapidly growing city. The chapter explores the spatial distribution of temperature variations, the influence of land use and land cover on heat island intensity, and the implications of UHI on urban microclimates. Chapter five offers a conclusion and summary of the thesis, highlighting the key findings, implications, and recommendations for future research and practice. The conclusion reflects on the significance of the study in advancing our understanding of the urban heat island effect and its implications for sustainable urban development. In conclusion, this thesis contributes to the growing body of knowledge on urban heat islands and provides valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities associated with managing heat-related risks in rapidly growing cities. By analyzing the UHI effect in a specific urban context, the study offers practical recommendations for policymakers, urban planners, and stakeholders seeking to create more resilient and livable urban environments in the face of climate change.

Thesis Overview