GENERAL DEFINITION OF THE TECHNIQUE ARCHITECTURE FOR PASSIVE COOLING

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GENERAL DEFINITION OF THE TECHNIQUE
Technique: ARCHITECTURE FOR PASSIVE COOLING

Definition characters description and diffusion

By analysing the bio-climate of a place it is possible to draw the maximum benefit from its natural conditions. Passive architecture techniques are preferred, including cooling by evaporation or drying. Following these principles it is possible to build an ecological house equipped with water collectors on the roof and with hanging gardens.

General characters description and diffusion

 A living area is created below the roof garden, naturally cooled by the vegetation above.The roof garden consisting of a hanging roof made of vegetation provides heat insulation both in winter in summer. Thanks to their homeostatic qualities plants automatically regulate the protection they give according to climatic conditions. This allows energy for heating to be reduced by up to 50% and electric conditioning to be completely avoided. In summer time on a roof made of vegetation the temperature does not exceed 25 degrees, whereas a conventional covering may reach 80 degrees. Furthermore, plants improve the quality of the air by producing oxygen and retaining dust particles. Moreover, certain devices as the dry stone walls, that are still in use over northern Europe, northern Scotland, Ireland and the Orkney Islands, impound the moisture and help supply the soil with water. In cold climate conditions the walls and the heaps of stones prevent the water in the soil from freezing. Therefore, acting as thermoregulators, they provide the plants with an adequate water supply.

Advantages and sustainability

This technique uses passive cooling techniques supported by means of architectural structures in order to create or collect water. This method is sustainable because it is done on a small scale and uses a water source not already exploited. This method also provides plants with necessary water. 

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TRADITIONAL TECHNIQUE DATA

Technique
ARCHITECTURE FOR PASSIVE COOLING
Icon
Cathegory
F - Energy and resources management
Identification code
F6f
Local applications of the technique
Success stories
Innovative technologies and solutions

RELATED TECHNIQUES

Author:
Ipogea
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Reference: www.ipogea.org