As temperatures continue to rise across the UK, the challenge of keeping buildings cool and protecting occupants from overheating is becoming an increasingly important issue for the built environment.
CIBSE’s expertise on building performance and climate resilience was recently featured in The Sunday Times, with Dr Anastasia Mylona, Technical Director at CIBSE, contributing to the national conversation on the growing demand for cooling solutions and the need for a balanced approach to managing overheating risks.
While air conditioning may provide short-term relief during extreme heat events, Dr Mylona highlighted that widespread adoption also presents challenges, including increased energy demand, impacts on the urban heat island effect and the risk of creating greater inequalities for those unable to access cooling technologies.
“Air conditioning is not a standalone solution,” is the message emerging from the wider industry discussion. Addressing overheating requires a holistic approach that considers building design, ventilation, shading, materials, energy efficiency and occupant comfort.
As the global leader in building performance, CIBSE continues to support professionals, policymakers and the wider industry in understanding how buildings can be designed, operated and adapted to remain safe, comfortable and resilient in a changing climate.
Through technical guidance, research, professional expertise and engagement with national media, CIBSE is helping to shape the conversation around overheating and the future of sustainable cooling in the built environment.
With climate change increasing the frequency and intensity of heat events, the role of building engineers has never been more important in delivering solutions that protect people while supporting the transition to a low-carbon future.
You can read the full article from The Sunday Times HERE