UMOVE-CC

In urban areas, cycling is an efficient way for citizens to access most of the services they need. It is a robust transportation system against energy crisis due to its low energy dependence. However, climate change might be a limit to its use because of the health risks related to making an effort during an intense heat event. This project aims at proposing an integrated methodology to add the thermal comfort component to the evaluation an improvement of existing cycle tracks or creation of new cycle tracks. The thermal comfort of cycle tracks will be investigated by comparing quantitative indicators derived from micrometeorological models and observations as well as qualitative indicators derived from citizen who collect quantitative and qualitative data about thermal comfort in field experiments. These data will be acquired through a citizen participation approach and will enable the investigation of itinerary habits by taking into account cycling facilities. Individual indicators that have an influence on thermal comfort will be considered, especially related to psychological, behavioral and physiological adaptations. The collected data will be used as input in climate models and also to characterise cycle tracks through spatial indicators. Investigations will be carried out to identify indicators and cartographic means to help local authorities to improve their cycle tracks. The methodology will be tested in several territories in France and Switzerland and discussed with decision-makers and urban planners. Geographical data and tools produced during the project will be free and openly accessible.