Behavioral Adaptation to Heatwaves in Urban Netherlands: A Sequential Mixed-Method Inquiry
Istiaque Ahmed (TU Delft - Urban Design)
M.M.E. van Esch (TU Delft - Environmental Technology and Design)
A. Petrović (TU Delft - Urban Studies)
F.D. van der Hoeven (TU Delft - Urban Design, TU Delft - 100% Research)
More Info
expand_more
Other than for strictly personal use, it is not permitted to download, forward or distribute the text or part of it, without the consent of the author(s) and/or copyright holder(s), unless the work is under an open content license such as Creative Commons.
Abstract
As heatwaves in cities intensify, understanding how urban residents adapt to extreme heat is critical. Yet, climate literature predominantly focuses on exposure-centric, spatial approaches, while bottom-up, people-first perspectives remain underrepresented. This study employs a sequential mixed-method approach to investigate behavioural adaptation practices among urban dwellers in the Netherlands.
In the first phase of the study, semi-structured, in-depth interviews (n=21) identified key themes that informed a Likert-scale survey instrument employed in the second phase to test a set of hypotheses. Subsequently, in phase two, a nationwide survey (n=1,849) across three urban typologies—Extremely Urban, Strongly Urban, and Moderately Urban—captured perceptions and behavioural practices related to heatwave adaptation.
Findings indicate that residents in highly dense, extremely urban areas have a lower behavioural adaptation score compared to the other two urban types. Additionally, ownership emerges as a key factor in the adaptation process; where homeowners prioritize technological adjustments, renters rely more on personal and cultural adjustments. In terms of risk perception, statistically significant differences exist between adults living alone and those living with a partner or family.
The tested hypotheses provide a nuanced understanding of specific vulnerability to heatwaves in the Netherlands, offering insights that can inform targeted urban design and planning strategies at the local level.
help_outline