Climate adaptivity of urban form: an evaluation by the case study of Medina of Fès

Abstract

The research investigates the potential of urban form in climate adaptation, by means of the case study of the Medina of Fès (Morocco), to provide relevant benefits for outdoor thermal comfort. The current challenge of SDG 11 reminds us – through Targets 11.4, 11.5 and 11.b – the importance to intervene carefully in ancient cities, protecting cultural heritage and exploiting their adaptive potential to face evident vulnerability to environmental risks. An interpretation of this ‘action plan’ is offered in a structured manner using appropriate simulation software ENVI-met and depthMapX, supported by graphic maps, for a simultaneous Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) and Space Syntax analysis. The adaptivity of urban form manifests itself in the compactness through form, size and proximity of buildings. The results show a correlation between compactness and temperature mitigation. Finally, this complexity appears intelligible observing the social effects of strong human capital on urban development.

KEYWORDS:

• Computational fluid dynamics (CFD)
• Space syntax
• simulation
• urban compactness
• urban physics
• sustainable development

Acknowledgements

The contribution was developed entirely by the author. It is the result of the on-field research ‘Sustainability, resilience and adaptivity of historical urban fabrics: the case of Medina of Fès in Morocco', organized and coordinated by Prof. F. Tucci, among the activities of PhD course in Planning, Design and Technology of Architecture (Sapienza University of Rome).

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Data availability statement

The author confirms that the data supporting the findings of this study are available within the article.

Notes

1 Reflectance of wall coated with white lime plaster is among 60–65% at a wavelength between 750 and 1,750 nm.

2 Diff indicates the air pressure through the difference between the detected pressure and the atmospheric pressure (1,013.25 hPa).