# The Effect of Green Areas on Urban Microclimate: A University Campus Model Case
## 2 Materials and Methods
A hygrometer (Extech 445815 Humidity Meter (Extech Instruments, Nashua, NH, USA), and accuracy: \(\pm\)3% RH (relative humidity)) was used to determine humidity levels, providing precise data by measuring the relative humidity in the environment. To measure wind speed, an anemometer (Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter (Kestrel Instruments, Boothwyn, PA, USA), accuracy: \(\pm\)3% of reading, and range: 0.4 to 40 m/s) was employed, offering reliable data by assessing airflow velocity. To ensure measurement accuracy, all devices were calibrated and compared with reference values. Within the campus, locations with broad-leaved trees, conifers, shrubs, and ivy in sun-exposed areas were identified. Measurement points were systematically determined in these areas and recorded by marking each point on a map. This step was crucial for ensuring the continuity and consistency of the measurements (Figure 2). All instruments were inspected prior to each data collection session to ensure battery levels and sensor cleanliness. Measurements were conducted under stable atmospheric conditions to minimize data variability. Potential measurement errors due to human handling were minimized by holding each device at a consistent height (150 cm) and angle during the fieldwork. The selection of the months (January, April, August, and October) was based on the representation of four distinct seasons in the humid subtropical climate of Rize, which allowed for capturing seasonal variation in microclimatic parameters. Similarly, the chosen time points (09:00, 13:00, and 17:00) represent the morning, midday, and late afternoon periods, respectively--each with different levels of solar radiation and thermal exposure. This temporal structure is consistent with prior studies investigating the thermal performance of green spaces across diurnal cycles [68; 69] and is further supported by recent findings that highlight the importance of time-based variation in vegetation-climate interactions [70; 71]. These time intervals help assess the dynamic thermal behavior of different vegetation types throughout the day under varying atmospheric conditions. Measurements were conducted in January (winter), April (spring), August (summer), and October (autumn). Data collection took place at three different times of the day: 09:00 (morning), 13:00 (noon), and 17:00 (evening). To better evaluate temperature variations throughout the day, three repeated measurements were taken at each measurement point, and the average values were used. Before starting the measurement process, the calibration of the measurement devices and the condition of their batteries were checked. Upon arrival at the designated measurement locations, any accumulated dust, leaves, or water puddles on the surface were cleared. During the measurement process, the infrared thermometer was held at approximately 150 cm height and positioned perpendicular to the surface (Figure 2a). Three repeated measurements were taken at each point, and the averages were recorded. For humidity measurements, the hygrometer was held at approximately 150 cm height to ensure a representative assessment of ambient conditions (Figure 2b). Three repeated measurements were taken at each measurement point, and the average values were recorded. The humidity levels in different areas (e.g., shaded and sun-exposed regions) were compared. For wind speed measurements, the anemometer was held at approximately 150 cm height and exposed directly to the airflow for the most accurate readings (Figure 2c). Three repeated measurements were taken at each measurement point, and the average values were recorded. The variations in wind speed across different areas were analyzed.