As condições urbanas e o conforto térmico humano nas vias cicláveis em Fortaleza, Ceará

Abstract

This study arose from the need to understand how thermal conditions on cycling paths in Fortaleza affect cyclists' comfort, contributing to more humane and sustainable urban planning. The goal was to analyze how urban materiality - such as pavement type and vegetation presence - and local climatic characteristics influence thermal sensation, using mobile transects and the Heat Index (HI) as a thermal comfort indicator. For this purpose, temperature and humidity measurements were conducted in four urban segments (Pici Campus, Bezerra de Menezes Avenue, Domingos Olímpio Avenue, and Antônio Sales Avenue) during the pre-rainy season. The analysis showed that areas with greater vegetation cover and permeable pavement provide more pleasant thermal conditions, while asphalted roads exposed to intense traffic generate greater discomfort. The research highlights the importance of integrating natural elements, such as trees and green areas, and adopting materials that reduce heat retention in the design of cycling paths. These measures not only improve thermal comfort but also encourage the use of bicycles as a viable and sustainable transportation option in tropical cities like Fortaleza.