In the context of climate change adaptation of cities to mitigate heat stress, citizen participation is a promising approach. A densely distributed measurement network of 59 quality-controlled meteorological low-cost sensors was set up in an urban study area in Pune for continuous data collection by engaging local communities. Analyses of measurements show the suitability of the monitoring network for scientific modelling applications and identify a high active interest of involved citizens.

Climate change adaptation measures like unsealings can reduce urban heat stress. As grass grid pavers have never been parameterized for microclimate model simulations with ENVI-met, a new parameterization was developed based on field measurements. To analyse the cooling potential, scenario analyses were performed for a densely developed area in Cologne. Statistically significant average cooling effects of up to −11.1 K were found for surface temperature and up to −2.9 K for 1 m air temperature.

Cities are particularly affected by climate change. Adaptation strategies require data, models and scenario analyses. This paper characterizes the urban microclimate of a 16 ha study area in Cologne based on a network of 33 calibrated and validated sensors. Using statistical analyses, tests and pairwise comparisons, significant microclimatic differences were identified between a park, courtyard, avenue and narrow street. The data will be used in future to validate an ENVI-met microclimate model.