Urban Climate Mapping Based on Structural Landscape Features: The Case of Ankara

The temperature difference between urban environments and urban areas also increases, along with the growing population and building volume in cities. This study aims to map the urban climate of Ankara based on structural landscape features. The method is based on calculating the negative and positive effects of the parameters that shape the urban form on the thermal load and dynamic potential in the city. The urban climate classes are mapped based on the structural landscape character of Ankara city for the purposes of this study. The results of the analysis revealed that the climate class with the highest percentage (Moderate Warming) covers 18.76% of the urban core, while the climate class with the lowest percentage (Very Strong Warming) covers 0.05% of the urban core. When the urban climate classes are evaluated based on districts, it is seen that the heating effect levels of the districts in the urban core are Çankaya (25%), Yenimahalle (18%), Mamak (15%), Etimesgut (14%), Keçiören (11%), Altındağ (8%), and Sincan (8%), respectively. Urban climate maps based on structural landscape character can be utilized in the preparation of spatial plans, particularly in the development of urban open and green space strategies aimed at improving urban climate. It is recommended that this method be applied by the Ministry of Environment, Urbanization, and Climate Change to develop Ankara, with studies conducted in cooperation with local administrations. Additionally, it is suggested that an urban climate branch be established to ensure continuity. Thus, this study can serve as a model for mapping the climate of all cities in the country, informing better planning decisions, and developing sustainable land-use policies.