Effective cooling networks: Optimizing corridors for Urban Heat Island mitigation

The detrimental impacts of the Urban Heat Island (UHI) effect are widely recognized in cities globally. Despite the natural cooling capacity of urban cold islands (UCIs), their fragmented state diminishes overall effectiveness. Previous research focused on identifying corridors to connect these isolated UCIs, aiming to enhance cooling networks. However, optimal connection strategies remained elusive. This study introduces a novel framework to address this gap. Utilizing ArcGIS Pro's optimal region connection tools alongside Morphological Spatial Pattern Analysis (MSPA) and ecological parameters, corridors in Ghaemshahr, Iran were meticulously planned and assessed. Through minimum cumulative resistance and gravity models, 63 potential corridors totaling 153 km were identified. Optimization procedures then refined this selection to 27 key corridors spanning 22 km, with 67% measuring less than 0.5 km and strategically positioned near UCIs. This prioritizes adjacency, maximizing corridor protection and construction likelihood. This cost-effective approach fosters stronger connectivity between adjacent UCIs, ultimately linking all UCIs within the region. This innovative methodology provides a holistic solution for mitigating UHI effects, promoting sustainable urban development.