Yes, Trees are the Solution for Thermal Comfort and Environmental Quality in Equatorial Public Squares

Abstract Unregulated urban expansion can diminish green spaces and alter microclimatic conditions, thereby compromising thermal comfort and the quality of life for the population. In this context, urban forestry plays a pivotal role in mitigating warming effects within urban environments. The present study aimed to analyze the influence of urban tree canopy cover on surface temperature and thermal comfort in urban squares within the municipality of Santarém, Pará state, Brazil. To this end, in situ measurements of surface temperature were conducted using an infrared thermometer, alongside assessments of thermal stress and perceived temperature using a heat stress meter equipped with the Wet-Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) index. Data were collected in both tree-shaded and unshaded areas across seven city squares at 08:00, 13:00, and 18:00. The results demonstrated that the afternoon period exhibited the highest mean values for surface temperature (40.1°C), thermal stress (31.6°C), and perceived temperature (48.3°C). Areas lacking tree canopy cover recorded higher surface temperatures (39.7°C), elevated thermal stress (30.5°C), and greater perceived temperatures (45.4°C) compared to tree-shaded areas. Among the evaluated sites, Liberdade Square presented the highest mean surface temperature (40.8°C), while São Raimundo and Três Poderes squares recorded the highest values for thermal stress (31.2°C) and perceived temperature (48.6°C). We conclude that the presence of tree canopy cover significantly contributes to lowering surface temperatures and improving thermal comfort conditions, thereby highlighting the critical role of urban forestry in urban planning and the enhancement of urban environmental quality.