Trees Proven as Effective Natural Coolers in Urban Areas by TU Delft Study
Delft, Thursday, 10 July 2025.
TU Delft’s study highlights trees’ ability to reduce radiant heat by over 30°C, confirming their essential role in urban cooling and air quality enhancement, supporting targeted urban greening policies.
Understanding the Cooling Phenomenon
TU Delft’s recent research project, i-Tree 2.0-NL, has scientifically validated the cooling effects of 69 tree species across different urban settings in the Netherlands. The study revealed that beneath a tree’s canopy, the radiant heat can be more than 30 degrees Celsius lower compared to direct sunlight, demonstrating trees’ significant contribution to urban temperature regulation and air quality improvement [1]. This insight into trees’ natural cooling capabilities underscores their vital role in mitigating urban heat and suggests strategic benefits for urban planning.
Innovative Applications and Tools
The i-Tree 2.0-NL project, conducted in urban regions like Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and Groningen, developed a comprehensive classification known as the Cool Tree Architecture Typology. This groundbreaking tool identifies tree characteristics that maximize cooling benefits, providing a framework for municipalities to formulate informed greening policies. Furthermore, practical tools have been created to aid urban developers in balancing green areas with built environments, ensuring sustainable urban growth [1][2].
Research Leadership and Collaboration
The i-Tree 2.0-NL initiative was spearheaded by key figures such as René van der Velde, Associate Professor of Landscape Architecture and Urban Forestry, and Rebecca Price, Assistant Professor of Transition Design. Both played pivotal roles in guiding this extensive project of 38 consortium members, focused on generating research that would lead to tangible effects on urban living conditions [1][3]. Their leadership in ensuring alignment and impact emphasizes the collaborative nature and strategic foresight involved in the project.
Future Implications and Urban Policy Development
As the i-Tree 2.0-NL project reaches its conclusion, the comprehensive data and models it produced will serve as crucial resources for future urban climate policies. The focus remains on expanding urban green spaces to enhance social, environmental, and economic benefits by 2030. The findings also facilitate the growth of ecological urban designs that integrate naturally occurring cooling systems, laying the groundwork for more resilient and livable cities [1][3].