Tree species richness and diversity predicts the magnitude of urban heat island mitigation effects of greenspaces

The Urban Heat Island Effect (UHIE) is a widely recognised phenomenon that profoundly affects the quality of life for urban citizens. greenspace can help mitigate UHIE, but characteristics determine extent to which any given cool an area are not well understood. A key characteristic likely be properties trees found in greenspace. Here, we explore sensitivity strength cooling effect tree community structure greenspaces Changzhou, China. Land surface temperatures were retrieved from Landsat 7 ETM+ and 8 TIRS used evaluate temperature drop amplitude (TDA) range (CR) 15 across each four seasons. Tree was investigated using 156 sample plots greenspaces. We number plant indicators have significant impact on effect. Shannon-Wiener diversity index, species richness canopy coverage all positively correlated with magnitude amplitude, their influence varying seasonally. also find mean crown width summer autumn, while density negatively winter. Our findings improve understanding relationship between In particular, highlight important role provides mitigating suggest if planners wish cities, they should include higher species.