Microclimatic analyzes of open spaces in Habana Vieja, Cuba

Abstract

The demographic pressure continuously modifies the occupation of the urban space and generates conditions of low environmental quality. The new patterns of use of open space are being subordinated to the economic forms that require greater effectiveness in shorter terms, which leads to little observation of environmental quality indicators. These modifications, in patrimonial places, as is the case of Old Havana, Cuba, are submitted to the ordinances for the protection of the patrimony, converting many points of the street into space-museum, with great offers of attraction, but null opportunities of stay. The condition that prevents permanence in the place is due in part to unfavorable microclimatic conditions. The study focuses on the indicators and variables that are involved in the efficiency of open spaces in the historic center of Old Havana, with respect to the urban microclimate and the thermal comfort zone. The methodology consists of a qualitative analysis of the composition of the space and a quantitative of the thermal conditions. The results shown correspond to three significant sites of the urban network of open spaces, based on a conceptual-methodological framework that considers green spaces as part of strategies for a sustainable city. This investigation is carried out as part of the actions for the diagnosis of the area for the Master Plan of the Office of the Historian of Old Havana.