Submitted by Dr O. Hadeler on Fri, 14/02/2020 - 15:22
Sensors help to understand the increasing energy needs of residents in Mumbai's slum rehabilitation housing and its poor inside air quality. Based on qualitative and quantitative research Cambridge architect and urban designer Ronita Bardhan has made suggestions on how to improve the living conditions of millions of people and at the same time reduce the environmental impact.
Ronita Bardham is a University Lecturer of Sustainability in the Build Environment at the Department of Architecture. Her work is concerned with habitat design, energy use and gender equality for low-income housing in low and middle income countries.
Ronita has used temperature, humidity, light, air flow and air pollution sensors to monitor the living conditions inside so-called slum rehabilitation housing which is aimed at providing better accommodation for former slum dwellers.
However, the urban and architectural design of the new building results in increased indoor temperatures and poor air quality. As a result inhabitants are looking forward to install air conditioning as soon as they have the financial means, which subsequently results in an increased electricity usage.
Read Ronita's full story here.