Effects of changing tree canopy coverage on urban temperature and carbon mitigation: A case study of Gukchae-bosang Memorial Park, Daegu

In response to climate change, urban forests serve not only as carbon sinks but also are critical in reducing temperature and saving energy. This study proposes an efficient method for urban forest creation focused on temperature reduction and quantitatively assesses its impact using the Tree Canopy Ratio (TCR). The study was conducted in Gukchae-bosang Memorial Park, Daegu, South Korea. Eight scenarios were developed, with TCR values ranging from 0% to 70% at 10% intervals. Using ENVI-met, a microclimate simulation model, temperature changes were analyzed across scenarios, and optimal canopy coverage intervals were derived using R. The temperature reduction effects were converted into energy savings using SPSS and established energy conversion formulas. The results showed that both temperature reduction and energy savings increased with higher TCR values. Specifically, the 30% TCR scenario was found to be the most efficient in reducing temperature. Furthermore, temperature reduction at 30% TCR over six hours was equivalent to the annual carbon absorption of approximately 28.5 trees and that at 70% TCR of 56.4 trees. This study provides quantitative evidence of the climate mitigation benefits of urban forests and suggests optimal TCR levels for maximizing temperature and energy reductions. The findings offer a scientific basis for planning and designing urban forests under spatial constraints in dense urban areas.