Mapping Invisible Visible: Developing an online GIS visualization platform for Urban heat island and urban pollution island
Lu Liang, Professor
Landscape Architecture and Environmental Planning
Applications for Fall 2024 are closed for this project.
The urban heat island (UHI) and urban pollution island (UPI) represent critical socio-environmental challenges that have a global impact on cities. These phenomena, characterized by elevated temperatures and increased pollution levels compared to non-urban areas, are the result of significant shifts in human settlement patterns and associated anthropogenic activities. Furthermore, they are anticipated to become more severe in the face of future climate change and urban development.
The UHI and UPI patterns exhibit significant variations at the neighborhood level, giving rise to a pressing social issue—environmental inequality. This inequality is marked by the unequal distribution of thermal discomfort and air pollution among different socio-economic groups within a city. Therefore, it is essential to investigate the interactions between UHI and UPI at intra-urban scales.
In recent years, Principal Investigator Liang has established a cost-effective sensor network in a suburban county where social equality concerns are particularly pronounced. To enhance public awareness and understanding of their local environment, we aim to create an online, publicly accessible platform for visualizing the data collected by these low-cost air pollution and temperature sensors.
Qualifications: Specific Role For the Undergraduates
1) Data Collection and Processing: organize and clean the collected data for integration into the project's database.
2) GIS Platform Development: Work closely with the research team to help develop the online GIS visualization platform. Contribute to the design and implementation of user-friendly interface features for the platform.
3) Data Visualization: Utilize GIS tools and software to visualize UHI and UPI patterns at various spatial scales. Assist in creating maps, graphs, and interactive visualizations to convey the project's findings effectively.
4) User Accessibility and Testing: Ensure the platform's functionality and accessibility for a diverse range of users, including community members, researchers, and policymakers. Participate in usability testing and gather user feedback to improve the platform's user experience.
5) Educational Outreach: Collaborate with the team to develop educational materials and resources that explain the significance of UHI and UPI.
6) Documentation and Reporting: Maintain detailed records of your activities, data sources, and any challenges encountered during the project. Contribute to progress reports and project documentation as needed.
Specific Qualifications the Students should have
- Familiar with Geographic Information system (required)
- Have taken C188 or an equivalent class (desired)
- Have experience with ArcGIS Online or a willingness to learn (desired)
- Enthusiasm for environmental issues and their societal impact.
- Strong communication skills.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively.
Hours: 6-8 hrs
Engineering, Design & Technologies Environmental Issues