Microclimate Environmental Impact in Campus: Case Study at Faculty of Built Environment and Faculty of Art and Design, UiTM Puncak Alam, Selangor

Abstract

This study explores the effects of the thermal environment on the microclimatic conditions at the Faculty of Built Environment and the Faculty of Art and Design at UiTM Puncak Alam. It focuses on key microclimatic factors such as temperature, humidity, and wind speed, which significantly influence urban heat island (UHI) issues in urban settings. The research examines how thoughtful design elements such as building orientation, greenery, and water features can create a more comfortable and sustainable campus in a tropical climate. By combining field measurements with ENVI-met simulations, the study reveals that areas with well-placed vegetation and water features experience significantly lower temperatures and more stable humidity, contributing to a more pleasant outdoor atmosphere. Additionally, strategically designed building layouts enhance natural airflow and reduce stagnant air zones, further improving comfort. The study emphasizes that ENVI-met is a valuable tool for analysing and predicting microclimatic conditions, demonstrating how green infrastructure and sustainable planning can transform campuses into cooler and more resilient spaces. Results indicate that, during peak hours, the air temperature reaches a maximum of 32.8°C at 15:00, while the minimum temperature is 23.5°C at 22:00. In terms of relative humidity, the highest percentage recorded is 98% at 03:00, which decreases to 62% at 15:00. The wind speed recorded at the site shows a maximum of 1.16 m/s at 07:00, while the lowest measurement is 0.01 m/s at 06:00. These findings provide practical recommendations, including increasing green coverage, optimizing campus layouts, and incorporating water features. Such measures can help universities address environmental challenges, such as the UHI effect, and create healthier, more comfortable learning environments.