Adaptation of Public Spaces to Climate Change Case Study of Lodz

Abstract Climate change is nowadays one of the most important problems that affects urban areas, where over half of the population lives. Due to the continuously growing population, significant number of citizens will be affected by its impact. For this reason, one of the steps to adapt cities to changing climate conditions is the implementation of adaptation strategies based on blue-green infrastructure elements. In this article, the existing conditions of two selected public spaces in Lodz (Poland) and the impact of the proposed modernization projects were examined. The aim of the study was to determine the extent to which the proposed projects will improve microclimatic conditions and thermal comfort, and to select a more efficient urban planning option. Simulations of meteorological conditions and thermal comfort for representatives of four groups of space users were done by using the ENVI-met program. This study reveals the relevance of the thermal comfort subject, especially for people over 65 years of age, due to the increased sensations of elderly during high temperatures and the increasing participation of this demographic group in the population of Lodz.