Impact of Affordability on Urban Thermal Comfort: a Thermal Analysis of the Center of Gurupi-TO

Abstract

Objective: Investigate the differences in temperature and relative humidity at different points in the central region of Gurupi-To, with the aim of understanding the impact of urban afforestation on the local temperature and humidity of the city, based on the difference in existing tree vegetation.   Theoretical Framework: It is based on concepts of phytosociology and urban afforestation, highlighting that the uncontrolled growth of cities causes environmental damage that impacts people's lives. Thus, the increase in temperature results from climate change and is affected by the artificial built environment due to the difference in construction materials and vegetation. Urban afforestation is a means to mitigate this issue and improve the microclimate.   Method: The methodology adopted for this research includes fieldwork with the collection of temperature and air humidity data, using the Datalogger device, model GGL-20, between March and April 2021. The comparison was conducted through graphical representation of variance (ANOVA), based on T-test analysis, using the R Studio software.   Results and Discussion: The results obtained revealed that among the points studied, the area with the most vegetation showed lower temperatures and better humidity levels in locations with more urban afforestation. This is due to the vegetative cover, as trees provide shade and contribute to evapotranspiration, a physiological process that positively impacts the improvement of temperature and air humidity factors.   Research Implications: The practical and theoretical implications of this research are discussed, providing results that influence conservation practices and the sustainable management of urban afforestation.   Originality/Value: This study contributes to the literature by presenting a practical investigation into the influence of urban afforestation on temperature and air humidity in cities located in the Cerrado biome, with a focus on Gurupi-TO. It highlights the importance of conservation and management of urban afforestation in urban areas. The relevance and value of this research are evidenced by the data and the proposed strategies, which aim to demonstrate the importance of expanding urban afforestation in city centers as a mechanism for controlling the microclimate, particularly temperature and air humidity.