Effects of the tree distribution and species on outdoor environment conditions in a hot summer and cold winter zone: A case study in Wuhan residential quarters

Residential district is the important space for people living and outdoor activities. Vegetation is proved to be effectively regulate microclimate. Living in Wuhan, residents have to suffer heat stress in summer and strong cold wind in winter simultaneously. It is necessary to dictate vegetation types and layout in residential area to get comfortable environment both in hot summer and cold winter. This study examined the vegetation influences of residential wind environment in hot and cold seasons by using the ENVI-met model V4. Field measurement validated the performance of ENVI-met model. The simulation was based on multi-story buildings representing the current primary form of residential area in Wuhan. 3 scenarios with three tree arrangements and 8 vegetation species were simulated. Height-to-distance ratio of trees (as “Aspect ratio of trees”, ART) was used to describe the tree distribution. Results showed that the impact of vegetation on both heat environment and ventilation depended on tree arrangement, LAI, crown width and tree height. The comparison of 3 tree distributions revealed that trees with an ART < 2 should be a priority to mitigate hot environments due to the large effects on PET reduction in summer. Evergreen species with an ART < 2 also effectively decreased wind speed in winter as well as blocked direct sunlight, resulting in negative effects on PET. Tall trees with a large LAI and canopy diameter should be a priority to improve the comfort of outdoor environments.