Small-Scale Hybrid Participation and Heat Mitigation Measures by Active Bottom Surface Cooling—Need for an Integrated Framework to Improve Well-Being

Abstract

Rising urban temperatures due to climate change, limited green spaces, and dense urban areas impact public health and human well-being, highlighting the need for innovative grey infrastructure solutions where conventional green spaces are not feasible. This study aims to bridge the gap between objectively measured and perceived benefits of urban heat mitigation by combining social and technological methods within socio-ecological systems. First, a literature review of 759 articles, with 64 meeting the review criteria, and a bibliometric analysis examined the recent extensive research on participation and the connections between participation, resilience, and sustainability. Second, a chain of evidence as a qualitative method demonstrated how Active Bottom Surface Cooling (ABSC) can enhance outdoor thermal comfort (OTC). This emphasised the importance of participatory innovation and novel cooling technologies for urban resilience: hybrid (digital and analogue) participation can raise the awareness, acceptance, and effectiveness of such technical innovations. It revealed the need for an integrated framework, leveraging synergies: (1) community engagement tailors solutions to urban needs, (2) adaptability ensures effectiveness across diverse settings, (3) improved thermal comfort enhances citizen well-being, and (4) resilience strengthens the climate change response. By conceptualising cities as urban systems, the integrated framework fosters reciprocal socio-ecological benefits between people, nature, and the environment. Through hybrid participation and ABSC, it boosts community engagement, OTC, and well-being for sustainable urban development