<
https://theconversation.com/in-a-heatwave-a-cool-library-or-shopping-centre-is-a-lifeline-do-we-need-more-climate-shelters-275661>
"Many of our homes and workplaces were built for a milder climate that no
longer exists. As Australia braces for more days above 40ºC and hot nights,
many homes – especially older or poorly insulated ones – become unsafe as heat
overwhelms the body’s natural cooling systems.
Wealthier households may be able to retrofit homes to stay cool using passive
thermal techniques or air-conditioning more freely, but rising energy costs
make this difficult for many people. Extreme heat hits everyone, but the burden
falls most heavily on those with the least resources.
As bushfires become more frequent and fire season extends over longer, hotter
summers, bushfire smoke adds another layer of risk. Houses relying on natural
ventilation draw unsafe air inside, while poorly constructed homes allow smoke
to leak indoors. In both cases, people are left without safe shelter – a basic
human right
It would take decades to upgrade every home in Australia to protect against
heat and smoke, particularly given the return on investment from housing is
prioritised in a capitalist system over housing’s social role.
This means many people will increasingly need climate shelters – cool, safe
public places such as libraries and communities centres where people can escape
heat and smoke."
Cheers,
*** Xanni ***
--
mailto:xanni@xanadu.net Andrew Pam
http://xanadu.com.au/ Chief Scientist, Xanadu
https://glasswings.com.au/ Partner, Glass Wings
https://sericyb.com.au/ Manager, Serious Cybernetics
