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2 clusters · 2 sources · 23 days · First seen · Last updated

Seoul urban forest heat mitigation benefits

Overview

Research from the National Institute of Forest Science indicates that urban forests in Seoul provide significant temperature mitigation. Studies show these forests can cool midday air by as much as 1.8 °C and maintain nighttime temperatures between 1.3 °C and 1.6 °C lower than built-up areas. Mixed broadleaf-conifer and pure broadleaf stands were found to be most effective due to sunlight blockage and evapotranspiration.

Building on these environmental findings, the economic value of urban forests in mitigating the heat island effect has been estimated at 1.3334 trillion won. This valuation nearly doubles the 2020 estimate of approximately 666.9 billion won. The increase is attributed to a 22.6% rise in urban forest area per person between 2021 and 2023, alongside a 63.9% increase in electricity market prices. Researchers noted that as heatwaves intensify, these forests serve as essential cooling shelters and recreational spaces.

Entities

National Institute of Forest Science · urban forest · National Institute of Forest Science (South Korea) · Seoul · broadleaf trees

Timeline

  1. 24 days ago

    [BUSINESS] 2 sources
    Urban forests' heat mitigation value reaches 1.33 trillion won

    The economic value of urban forests in mitigating heat island effects has reached 1.33 trillion won, doubling the 2020 figure due to increased forest coverage and rising electricity costs.

  2. about 2 months ago

    [HEALTH] 2 sources
    Seoul urban forests lower summer temperature by up to 1.8 °C

    South Korea’s National Institute of Forest Science finds Seoul urban forests cut midday temperatures up to 1.8 °C and night temps 1.3‑1.6 °C, recommending green‑space designs that maximise shade and evapotransp

Sources

seoul.co.kr · soeurs-st-paul.ch