Contextual non-physiological factors affecting outdoor thermal comfort perception in alleyways of El Mina Lebanon

In response to the global climate crisis, this paper examines the impact of non-physiological factors on outdoor thermal comfort perception in alleyways of the historical centre of El-Mina Lebanon. Given the city’s complex post-colonial history and particular context, the survey overlaps two empirical data collection methods: observations and questionnaires targeting traditional knowledge, local attitudes and situated practices related to outdoor thermal comfort. Local perceptions, habits and solutions are extracted. Main findings include: Attachment and a sense of belonging to the alleyway are correlated with higher levels of thermal comfort while other psychological factors like perceived danger and confinement are linked to more thermal discomfort. Furthermore, cultural practices such as daily gatherings in the alleyways inhibit the perception of thermal discomfort. Finally, social identity tied to occupation, such as fishermen, reflect heightened thermal adaptation patterns.