The impact of vertical vegetation on outdoor thermal perception during current and future heatwaves in a temperate climate

Vertical vegetation systems offer a sustainable solution for enhancing building energy efficiency and indoor comfort while also providing essential urban ecosystem services. However, research on their thermal effects during heat waves is still limited, particularly in the context of climate change. Mitigating overheating during hot seasons is crucial for both ecosystems and human health, especially in temperate regions. The present study aims to investigate and compare the benefits of two types of vertical green walls, applied to the facades of an existing building, in mitigating the effects of heat waves, relative to a baseline wall. Using the ENVI-met software, this research analyzes the external thermal response in 2024 and during a hypothetical heat wave for 2050, with the University of Parma’s Engineering Headquarter serving as a case study. To address the research aims, the absolute differences between the Mean Radiant Temperature (MRT) values and the Universal Thermal Climate Index (UTCI) will be evaluated for each façade and scenario across the three cases. The results will help to understand the microclimatic benefits of vertical greenery, thereby supporting future urban adaptation strategies for climate change.