How does perceived heat stress differ between urban forms and human vulnerability profiles? – case study Berlin

Abstract. Urban areas in all world regions are experiencing increasing heat stress and heat-related risks. While in-depth knowledge exists in terms of the urban heat island effect and increased heat stress in cities in the context of climate change, less is known about how individual heat perceptions and experiences differ between urban forms or with different vulnerability profiles of exposed people. It is crucial to identify and assess differences within cities relating to urban form and social structure, as both need to be considered when designing adaptation plans for heat-related risks. Here, we explore linkages between urban structure types (USTs), heat stress perception and different socioeconomic group’s experiences in Berlin using a household survey, statistical and earth observation data. We characterize the urban region following the ring structure developed in the urbisphere project. Although heat stress exposure is higher in the inner-city ring, we find that a higher percentage of vulnerable groups in the outer city (6 km to 18 km from city centre) where more elderly live. We underscore the need for attention in future adaptation plans based on the USTs, socio-economic profile and adaptive capacities e.g. for elderly living in high-rise buildings with low income and for dense blocks with less green and shaded spaces availability. The method and findings can inform future adaptation strategies of other cities to consider different profiles of vulnerability and adaptive capacities within and between USTs.