Sustainable Urbanization Strategies: Mitigating Urban Heat Islands through Synergy between Economic Choices, Renewable Energy Consumption, and Environmental Interventions

Amid the growing concern surrounding urban heat islands (UHIs) in the context of climate change, this study delves into the intricate interplay between economic factors and environmental elements and their impact on the intensity of urban heat islands across a panel of 13 countries during the period from 2000 to 2022. Using a panel fixed effect regression methodology, our investigation uncovers intriguing insights. Specifically, the study reveals that improving building energy efficiency and enhancing tree canopy coverage reduces urban heat island intensity (UHHI), demonstrating a negative correlation. Conversely, an increase in the green roof area, higher levels of renewable energy consumption, and greater investment in research and development exhibit positive associations with UHHI, signaling multifaceted dynamics. The panel Impulse Response Function offers a projection of short-term UHHI trends over the following decade. Significantly, variables such as the extent of green space, building energy efficiency, community resilience, renewable energy consumption, and research and development expenditures are expected to influence UHHI downward, underscoring the importance of sustainable practices and adaptability. Conversely, increases in the green roof area and tree canopy coverage are anticipated to positively impact UHHI, shedding light on the potential benefits of strategic urban greening initiatives. Furthermore, the variance decomposition analysis quantifies the proportional impact of individual variables on UHHI variance. Community resilience emerges as a pivotal factor, followed by the extent of green space, building energy efficiency, tree canopy coverage, and renewable energy consumption. By fostering energy efficiency, urban greenery, and resilience, cities can combat UHIs and cultivate sustainable urban environments that are resilient to escalating climate challenges.