Bioclimatic analysis

Vernacular architecture in India can be seen in variation as the geographic region and climate changes throughout the country. The country has different terrains and soil types and in addition to this, the culture, society and the overall demographics change from state to state which influence the vernacular architecture. During old times, buildings and towns were built in context to the environment while utilizing the locally available building materials. The traditional architecture was climate responsive and socially adaptive. The concepts of design were based on years of experimentation and experiences. The planning was well adapted to the people's needs. Uttar Pradesh has rural areas and old cities where vernacular architecture can be found. Some monuments, dwellings and settlements have vernacular design styles which have sustained even in difficult times.Vernacular elements can nowadays be mostly seen in rural areas or in the outskirts of cities. Inspite of rapid development of towns and conversion of rural areas into urban areas due to industrialization, some areas have retained the old and local architecture. Some buildings are of historic significance which contribute to the heritage while other vernacular dwellings can inspire the present day designers and architects to create sustainable urban fabric.

The primary purpose of building design is the creation of an indoor thermal environment, offering adequate living and working conditions for occupants. Thus, the objective is to consider local climatic conditions in the way of designing buildings for regions of the southern Algeria, where the hot and arid climate affects architecture and building materials.

The Haor region is characterised by annual flooding, with over 90% of the land submerged for half of the year. The compact rural settlements characterized by indigenous architecture and planning techniques enable the village to cope with the challenging hydro-meteorologic conditions while fostering social cohesion. However, recent developments using non-local materials potentially can disrupt social coherence, thereby creating adverse effects on community wellbeing. Since the rural settlements have gone through organic growth, maintaining vernacular patterns and formal documentation of the planning concepts are essential. This research identifies the settlement pattern from empirical study, on-site observation, and analysis of the pattern with an understanding of local norms and architectural knowledge. It is evident from the study that the rural houses are built aligned with the cardinal directions even when the site orientation is different. The settlement clusters are linearly aligned to the monsoon flood flow direction. Though the linear courtyards are subdivided in terms of ownership, practically, they are maintained as barrier-free connectivity among houses within the same housing cluster. This research will provide valuable guidelines for future planning in the challenging topography of the Haor Basin.

Resumo: a proposta deste estudo é examinar a correspondência da infestação pelo mosquito Aedes aegypti, através do Índice Breteau, por bairros, no período entre 2015 a 2017, com a temperatura de superfície estimada (TSE) da cidade Montes Claros-MG. Certas investigações apontam as questões hidroclimáticas como as que mais corroboram para intensificação larvária do inseto proposto. A metodologia consistiu na aquisição e organização dos dados relativos ao Índice Breteau do referido mosquito; a geração da imagem com a temperatura de superfície estimada da cidade; e o exame, com a aplicação da regressão linear múltipla, da associação de tais variáveis. Por meio dos resultados foi verificado que o modelo empregado (p < 0,01 e R² = 0,83) foi significativo, e as variáveis mais explicativas para o Índice Breteau de 2017, sejam-o Índice Breteau de 2016 (p < 0,01) e o desvio-padrão (p < 0,03) das temperaturas. Conclui-se que há ligação entre a maior infestação larvária pelo mosquito Aedes aegypti com as áreas onde existem maiores picos de calor. Palavras-chave: Saúde Pública. Mosquito Aedes aegypti. Temperatura de Superfície estimada (TSE).

RESUMEN La determinación de una zona de confort es un objetivo de la bioclimatología humana. El desarrollo manual, perceptivo e intelectual del hombre depende de la condición térmica que experimente. Los índices térmicos han sido desarrollados para zonas y ...

The aim of this study is to assess the differences in the occurrence of harsh bioclimatic conditions between the center of Lublin and non-urban areas in the warm half of the year (April-September) and to determine the rate of changes in these conditions in both analysed meteorological stations in the years 1973-2022. To assess the bioclimatic conditions, the biometeorological index Humidex was used. In the first part of the study period, the number of days with unfavourable bioclimatic conditions prevailed in the city center, while in the last two decades the differences have decreased, mainly as a result of the development of concentrated buildings in the suburban area. In both measurement points, there was a significant increase in the number of days with strong thermal and hygric loads on the human body. The study also presents the reasons for the occurrence of selected cases with significant differences in the index values in the Lublin region, as well as the synoptic conditions on the day with the highest recorded Humidex value during the study period.

Adaptation and mitigation for climate change are fundamental to ensure a viable future, both for the planet and for the people. More specifically, increasing sustainability in the built environment would have a significant effect in this direction. In addition, the wellbeing of all occupants could be enhanced by paying special care to indoor environmental quality. Increasing the use of passive strategies could in turn promote energy and resource efficiency, thus reducing operational costs and improving comfort. In this line, high-performance building envelopes tend to focus on insulation and airtightness, but could also provide thermal mass and moisture buffering at their inner surface. By storing excess heat and moisture, they can stabilise indoor temperature and relative humidity, restricting their daily and seasonal variability. This article investigates therefore the effect of two different envelope solutions, in relation to the hygrothermal behaviour of an office building in a cold/temperate climate. Following this, a comparison is made between a typical layered configuration with conventional insulation and an innovative one that includes also thermal mass and moisture buffering. Then, the hygrothermal performance of the two envelopes is simulated using EnergyPlus with DesignBuilder. Next, the analysis is divided into two parts. The first one examines the resulting indoor climate under normal operation with occupants, to show its psychrometric and dynamic behaviour. The second one is restricted to a fully passive operation, to explore its thermal autonomy, resilience and habitability. The objective of this work is to study the effect of different envelope materialities on the bioclimatic performance of the building. This can in turn reflect its energy efficiency, thermal comfort and thermal safety. The consequent increase in thrivability, resilience and sustainability may produce a more ethical architecture, with higher respect both for the user and for the environment.

Passive design uses natural elements to keep buildings comfortable, reducing the need for mechanical heating or cooling systems. By incorporating aspects like solar orientation, natural ventilation, thermal mass, courtyards passive design boosts energy efficiency and lowers a building's carbon footprint. These principles not only support environmental sustainability but also enhance indoor air quality and occupant comfort. Passive design isn't a new concept; it has roots in traditional architecture where builders used local materials and climate conditions to create comfortable spaces. Today, passive design combines advanced building science with a focus on environmental sustainability. Interest in passive design is growing due to the need to cut greenhouse gas emissions, lower energy costs, and make buildings more resilient to climate change. This paper explores the basic principles of passive design, its benefits, and how it can be applied in modern architecture through various case studies. The research aims to provide insights into how passive design can be effectively implemented in different climates to achieve energy efficiency and sustainability. Understanding how passive design elements interact with building performance helps develop strategies that prioritize both ecological and human needs. Key elements discussed include building orientation, materials, natural ventilation, shape of building and courtyard spaces. The findings highlight passive design's potential to create energy-efficient, comfortable buildings. The research starts with a thorough review of passive design principles and applications, forming a foundation for examining various case studies. These case studies are carefully selected to provide relevant insights into the practical aspects and impacts of passive design.

Native architecture and the identification of its underlying sustainable principles offer effective pathways for promoting sustainable architecture. This approach reorients attention towards native architectural traditions while aligning architectural discourse with contemporary international trends. Focusing on Amol's architectural values reveals how its structural designs have historically supported sustainable architectural principles. The study and reinterpretation of Amol's native architecture, particularly in its residential forms, hold significance due to their architectural merits and their relevance as socio-cultural and national heritage in modern urban contexts. This research investigates Amol's native architecture, aiming to integrate its structural patterns into sustainable residential architecture. The findings suggest that replicating elements proven to be sustainable over time in the local climate can support sustainability goals in contemporary residential architectural design.

While world is marching on with the population growth and urbanization issues, it has witnessed the high energy demand in trying to satisfy people with thermal comfort. In the warm and temperate city like Biratnagar, Nepal which has been rapidly urbanizing since the 1990s where the random construction practice has led most of population high time trouble in dealing with indoor comfort. The deal of achieving thermal comfort in the residential building of Biratnagar primarily by the means of passive design strategies is obtained through the application of strategies like suitable opening size and proper shading devices in the existing building.This study used both qualitative and quantitative methods which included field survey of both the vernacular and contemporary buildings of Biratnagar followed by the questionnaire tools based on which refernece building was selected. The data collected from the department of Hydrology and meteorology were analyzed using climate analysis tool bio...

This end-of-course paper analyzes the impacts of disorderly occupation in the resaca areas, more specifically in the Jandiá Canal, located in the Amazonian city of Macapá, in the state of Amapá. The study highlights the urban evolution of the region, highlighting the transformations in residential and commercial typologies, the adaptation of the neighborhood to demographic demands and the changes in the urban setting around the canal. In addition, the socio-environmental impacts of disorderly occupation, the lack of adequate infrastructure and the importance of detailed studies on the city's wetlands and urban evolution are discussed, considering architectural, social and environmental aspects, and the need for more effective and sustainable planning to promote the harmonious development of the city of Macapá and its water resources.

This end-of-course paper analyzes the impacts of disorderly occupation in the resaca areas, more specifically in the Jandiá Canal, located in the Amazonian city of Macapá, in the state of Amapá. The study highlights the urban evolution of the region, highlighting the transformations in residential and commercial typologies, the adaptation of the neighborhood to demographic demands and the changes in the urban setting around the canal. In addition, the socio-environmental impacts of disorderly occupation, the lack of adequate infrastructure and the importance of detailed studies on the city's wetlands and urban evolution are discussed, considering architectural, social and environmental aspects, and the need for more effective and sustainable planning to promote the harmonious development of the city of Macapá and its water resources.

Nigeria's rich cultural diversity is reflected in its different traditional building practices, each representing a unique cultural identity. However, modernization poses significant challenges to these traditional building practices. Contemporary architectural practices in Nigeria often neglect the local traditions and conditions that historically shaped building design and construction, particularly failing to consider crucial factors such as local culture, environment, and climate. This research focuses on the architectural heritage of the Igala people, with particular emphasis on their sustainable building practices. The study aims to examine the features and values inherent in Igala traditional building practices, and seeks to promote their preservation and integration in contemporary Nigerian architecture. The research employed narrative research approach, incorporating archival and historical data, field surveys, and interviews with local building professionals, traditional elders, and environmental experts. Data analysis was conducted through thematic content and descriptive analysis. The findings revealed key aspects of Igala indigenous building practices, including the use of courtyard layouts, hierarchical spatial configurations, organic growth patterns, and specialized food storage facilities. These features reflect a deep integration of socio-economic and socio-cultural functions. The research highlights how these traditional features contribute to sustainability by emphasizing valuable aspects such as security, privacy, communal living, cultural identity, energy efficiency, resource conservation, rainwater harvesting, passive solar design, and environmental conservation. The study underscores the importance of preserving these traditional building practices, not only to preserve cultural heritage but also to promote sustainable architectural practices in Nigeria by integrating indigenous knowledge into modern building design and construction.

This paper presents and analysis of the highest wind speed values recorded at the Meteorological Observatory of the Maria Curie-Skłodowska University in Lublin. The study uses values recorded data (3 times a day) for the period 1981-2005. During the 25 years of the study period there were 19 occasions of wind speed ≥ 10 m·s-1 and 14 cases of winds gusting at or over 20 m·s-1. Both kinds of situation were noticed most often in January and did not occur in May, June, July or August.

Se muestran los resultados de la evaluacion de la sensacion termica al interior de espacios semi-cerrados, como es el caso de cuatro rutas del transporte publico que los estudiantes de la zona metropolitana de Guadalajara utilizan para sus traslados a los Centros Universitarios de Ciencias Biologicas y Agropecuarias y al Centro Universitario de Ciencias de Salud de la Universidad de Guadalajara. Se presentan los resultados de evaluacion del bienestar subjetivo de los estudiantes a partir de encuestas dirigidas aplicadas paralelamente al proceso de medicion de temperatura y de humedad al interior del transporte. Se hizo el calculo de valores de sensacion termica por medio del Indice de Temperatura Aparente (ITA) para las cuatro rutas de estudio a fin de valorar el confort que se presenta en las unidades de transporte. Los promedios generales de mayor frecuencia en las mediciones oscilan entre los 30 °C - 38 °C. Se calcularon los indices de ITA para octubre, mayo y enero. En general l...

Se describen las principales características de la atmósfera sobre el Altiplano Central (3800 msnm) para poder estimar el potencial eólico de la región. Se recolectó simult áneamente datos de la dirección e intensidad del viento, temperatura y humedad relativa del aire, y presión atmosférica; en intervalos de cinco minutos, durante el período septiembre de 2010 a enero de 2012. Los sensores estaban a 3 metros sobre el nivel del suelo. Se analizan los promedios de la energía eólica en periodos estacionales, mensuales y diarios. También se consideran par ámetros como variaciones de la densidad del aire e intensidad de la turbulencia. Los resultados obtenidos muestran una correlación interesante entre la disponibilidad y la demanda local de energía.

Energy savings inside buildings require a comprehensive design approach to balance bioclimatic strategies with the use of active systems. A climatic responsive building aims to mediate external agents both to reduce climate loads and to create a healthy and comfortable indoor environment. The sensitive approach to comfort gives nowadays more chances to implement passive strategies and especially the use of natural ventilation. The proper adjustment of the architecture to the climate is one of the basic characteristics of vernacular building. Nowadays this area received an important support through the application of cutting-edge technology. Still, despite the clearly visible change of attitudes towards nature, more detailed analysis often lead to the conclusion that the arising buildings are very rarely based on extensive studies of local bioclimatic conditions. The purpose of this paper is to discuss how the traditional ways of adapting dwellings to the climate are combined with advanced technology and applied in contemporary bioclimatic buildings but also to pay particular attention to the use of local materials and construction techniques. The northern and southern regions of Cameroon with the Mousgum huts and traditional chiefdoms respectively will allow us to highlight certain technical identities and constructive traditions that are answers to sustainability in local architecture in Cameroon. Five important case studies are briefly presented in order to demonstrate that the relevant distinguishing feature of bioclimatic architecture is to go beyond the scheme of low-energy buildings, constructed from renewable materials and meeting the conditions of sustainable development certification systems. It is much more vital for the true green design to implement the structures in the ecosystem in such a way that they become an integral part of it. Thus understood bioclimatic architecture is logical, well adapted to the climate and therefore also economical. It creates great opportunities and should be perceived as the solution for the developing countries (but also for the whole world).

En noviembre de 2018, el Comité Consultivo Nacional de Normalización para la
Preservación y Uso Racional de los Recursos Energéticos (CCNNPURRE), de la
Comisión Nacional para el Uso Eficiente de la Energía (Conuee), aprobó la
actualización de la NOM-020-ENER-2011, Eficiencia Energética en
Edificaciones.- Envolvente de Edificios para Uso Habitacional, la cual se incluyó
en el Programa Nacional de Normalización de 2019 [1].
Uno de los aspectos a revisar en esta Norma Oficial Mexicana (NOM) es la
clasificación climática. La NOM fue diseñada a partir de un modelo que aplica a
edificios no residenciales y cuyo método de cálculo para determinar su
cumplimiento, se basa en la comparación, a través de un algoritmo que incluye
valores que representan características del clima local y de los elementos de la
envolvente (techos, paredes, puertas y ventanas) de un edificio de referencia
versus el edificio que se quiere construir.
Para definir los requisitos que establece la NOM para una localidad dada, en la
versión actual se les ubica en un listado de ciudades. En la práctica, esta
definición ha resultado insuficiente, ya que en la NOM solo están anotadas las
ciudades más importantes, por lo que se considera que una referencia genérica
a un determinado clima facilitaría su aplicación.
Por lo anterior, el presente documento integra una revisión de aspectos
generales relativos a las clasificaciones climáticas y la de cuatro que son
consideradas relevantes: la de Köppen, la de zonas bioclimáticas, la que se basa
en el concepto de Grados Día y la que se aplica, sin ser una clasificación climática
per-se, para la definición de tarifas eléctricas del sector residencial en México.
Como conclusión, se recomienda definir requisitos por zonas climáticas y
que esto se haga siguiendo la clasificación establecida a partir del
concepto de Grados Día.

Thermal comfort of indigenous dwellings has long been an interest of everyone. This paper reviews the comfort analysis of some published papers in Nepal and India. Researchers in Nepal are using tools like (building) bioclimatic chart, Mahoney table, predicted mean vote (PMV), predicted percentage of dissatisfied (PPD) and field measurements etc. for above analysis. Some papers from India are following adaptive thermal comfort models like ASHRAE standards. Thermal comfort tools used by the referred papers would be considered as a secondary source to compare comfort for the houses of two settlements of Nepal. One is in the Terai region and the other is of the Hill region of Nepal. A week-long field study was carried out for the settlement study. During the period, for a day, air temperature and humidity data were taken for the month of September for both locations. The data recorded is compared with the predefined thermal comfort models to check the users' thermal comfort in the selected buildings. In addition, the layout and design of the buildings are compared with the design recommendations given by the Mahoney table.

En este estudio se presentan los mapas del bioclima de España, referidos al bienestar termofisiológico del ser humano y al confort para cada mes del año. El confort higrotérmico en cada lugar se ha obtenido con los datos climáticos del periodo 1981-2010, proporcionados por de la Agencia Estatal de Meteorología (AEMET, 2022). Por ser los datos mas recientes, se le designa como actuales o presentes. Para el caso del escenario prospectivo al 2050, los datos climáticos se generaron con el programa Meteonorm, para poder determinar el impacto del cambio climático en el bioclima. Los lugares de estudio seleccionados corresponden a los registrados en 40 estaciones meteorológicas, distribuidas a lo largo del territorio español, y son representativas de todos los climas en el país. Los datos climáticos de la AEMET, son promedios mensuales de las temperaturas máxima, media y mínima, así como de la humedad relativa. Para llevar a cabo el estudio del bioclima se estimaron los datos medios horarios de temperatura y humedad relativa a partir de los mensuales (Biosol, 2013). Con los datos mensuales y la ecuación propuesta por Auliciems (1981), se definió la zona de confort térmico para el humano, adaptando el diagrama bioclimático de Olgyay (1963) para cada mes del año en los diversos lugares de estudio, determinando la sensación térmica media horaria para cada mes. Con los datos se elaboraron los diagramas del bioclima, que representan la percepción del frío, calor y el confort. A partir de los estudios del bioclima se elaboraron los mapas para representar la sensación térmica predominante en las regiones de España para cada mes del año. En dichos mapas se podrá definir el diseño y la adecuación bioclimática de los edificios existentes para lograr la eficiencia energética en la climatización de edificios, con los sistemas pasivos adecuados para las estrategias bioclimáticas necesarias, considerando los estudios del bioclima.

A produção de habitação social na Amazônia não difere daquela encontrada em outras regiões do Brasil, pois a falta de adequação dos projetos é uma questão histórica e posta. O presente ensaio pretende levantar questões acerca da inadequação dos projetos habitacionais para cidades na Amazônia. Utilizou-se para esta investigação referencial sobre o imaginário amazônico, as origens das formas de viver local e resultados de pesquisa em projeto já realizadas por pesquisadores locais. Foram também realizadas observações não-participantes em áreas habitacionais urbanas na cidade de Belém. Observou-se que há fortes indicações de que quanto mais próximo ao modo de vida original do habitante da região, o ribeirinho, menor a probabilidade de ocorrerem transformações nas habitações promovidas pelo poder público. Identificou-se, nos relatos de estudos, que existe uma linguagem tipológica do habitar ribeirinho nas modificações realizadas em unidades habitacionais de conjuntos promovidos pelo Estado, como mecanismo de adaptação na habitação. Aponta-se como contribuição, a constatação de que há uma desconformidade entre a necessidade do usuário e a atuação/produção estatal e considera-se que é provável que a compreensão das comunicações simbólicas estabelecidas entre as pessoas e o espaço construído pode ser benéfica para diminuir o desequilíbrio existente entre expectativa do usuário e qualidade do projeto na oferta estatal. Aponta-se que repensar as formas de projetar e produzir o espaço arquitetônico habitacional a partir do usuário local é um caminho seguro para a sustentabilidade do empreendimento, que contemple o desenvolvimento das pessoas a vitalidade do espaço.

Aspects such as mass development of horizontal housing with inappropriate designs for a region with warm and dry climate, the incessant investment in electrical energy, the continuous growth of cities towards the outskirts, and the downward trend in population density give rise to excessive energy consumption. This paper presents a study on the horizontal growth in the city of Hermosillo, Sonora, Mexico where the climate is warm and dry and the use of air conditioning is essential. In Hermosillo, 40 dwellings develop per hectare, which lack bioclimatic strategies and need to be supplied with electrical energy, street lighting, and urban infrastructure. In other cities such as in central Europe, up to 300 dwellings are developed per hectare and in South America, 150 dwellings per hectare. In these major cities, vertical housing is developed, which restrains territory growth. Based on this study, it can be demonstrated that sustainable vertical housing for warm dry climates such as the one in the State of Sonora can provide significant saving on electricity consumption and urban infrastructure in comparison to the mass development of horizontal housing with no bioclimatic techniques. This saving can be a determinant in the development of sustainable vertical housing.

Aspects such as mass development of horizontal housing with inappropriate designs for a region with warm and dry climate, the incessant investment in electrical energy, the continuous growth of cities towards the outskirts, and the downward trend in population density give rise to excessive energy consumption. This paper presents a study on the horizontal growth in the city of Hermosillo, Sonora, Mexico where the climate is warm and dry and the use of air conditioning is essential. In Hermosillo, 40 dwellings develop per hectare, which lack bioclimatic strategies and need to be supplied with electrical energy, street lighting, and urban infrastructure. In other cities such as in central Europe, up to 300 dwellings are developed per hectare and in South America, 150 dwellings per hectare. In these major cities, vertical housing is developed, which restrains territory growth. Based on this study, it can be demonstrated that sustainable vertical housing for warm dry climates such as the one in the State of Sonora can provide significant saving on electricity consumption and urban infrastructure in comparison to the mass development of horizontal housing with no bioclimatic techniques. This saving can be a determinant in the development of sustainable vertical housing.

Energy savings inside buildings require a comprehensive design approach to balance bioclimatic strategies with the use of active systems. A climatic responsive building aims to mediate external agents both to reduce climate loads and to create a healthy and comfortable indoor environment. The sensitive approach to comfort gives nowadays more chances to implement passive strategies and especially the use of natural ventilation. The proper adjustment of the architecture to the climate is one of the basic characteristics of vernacular building. Nowadays this area received an important support through the application of cutting-edge technology. Still, despite the clearly visible change of attitudes towards nature, more detailed analysis often lead to the conclusion that the arising buildings are very rarely based on extensive studies of local bioclimatic conditions. The purpose of this paper is to discuss how the traditional ways of adapting dwellings to the climate are combined with advanced technology and applied in contemporary bioclimatic buildings but also to pay particular attention to the use of local materials and construction techniques. The northern and southern regions of Cameroon with the Mousgum huts and traditional chiefdoms respectively will allow us to highlight certain technical identities and constructive traditions that are answers to sustainability in local architecture in Cameroon. Five important case studies are briefly presented in order to demonstrate that the relevant distinguishing feature of bioclimatic architecture is to go beyond the scheme of low-energy buildings, constructed from renewable materials and meeting the conditions of sustainable development certification systems. It is much more vital for the true green design to implement the structures in the ecosystem in such a way that they become an integral part of it. Thus understood bioclimatic architecture is logical, well adapted to the climate and therefore also economical. It creates great opportunities and should be perceived as the solution for the developing countries (but also for the whole world).

This study is conducted to retrieve bioclimatic comfort zones for outdoor recreation planning in Sulaimani province, Iraq. Spatial distribution of Physiological Equivalent Temperature (PET), which is a measure of bioclimatic comfort, was retrieved for the city of Sulaimani using meteorological data. The air temperature, relative humidity and wind speed data were employed for the calculation of PET. Data recorded at 15:00 obtained from 7 meteorological stations over the period from 1992-2015 were used to calculate monthly PET with the Rayman model. PET was spatially interpolated using IDW tool in ArcGIS 10.2 to convert point-data consisting of PET for each individual meteorological station into a continuous surface. Therefore, spatial distribution maps of PET for outdoor recreation activities were created after analyzing the maps. The results revealed that the lowest PET determined was around 4.8°C in Penjwin area during January while the highest PET determined as 59.6°C in northeast of Sulaimani, Halabja during July. On the other hand, the results also revealed that Sulaimani city, Dukan and Penjwin areas are founded to be more suitable for tourism especially during summer months compared to others within Sulaimani Province. The final results of this study may be used by recreation authorities in Sulaimani in the near future.

Potential natural vegetation units and fire frequency in Ponza island (central Italy). Aims of the paper are the classification of the landscape of Ponza island using physical features and vegetation series distribution, and the evaluation of the fire frequency and the relative effects on vegetation recover for each land unit. A land units map was realised in GIS environment, following the hierarchical land classification approach: 3 land systems, 4 land facets and 6 land units inside the Mediterrean bioclimatic region were singled out. 75 phytosociological relevés were carried out and 6 main potential natural vegetation types were identified: Quercenion virgilianae series, Erico-Quercetum ilicis series, Fraxino-Ulmenion minoris series, and the phytotoposequences of coastal cliffs, screes, and sand dunes. Fire frequency was calculated for each potential natural vegetation unit (period 1978-2001) and the highest percentage of fires was recorded in northern slopes of hills, mainly during the period August-October. Furthermore, the current research has pointed out that woods currently cover very small surfaces because of the high incidence of fires and that the terraces could play an important role to preserve soil and make easier the vegetation recover. Key words: fires, land units, Mediterranean island, potential natural vegetation. Riassunto Le finalità del presente lavoro sono state la classificazione territoriale gerarchica del paesaggio dell'isola di Ponza, utilizzando le caratteristiche dell'ambiente fisico e la distribuzione delle serie di vegetazione, e la valutazione dell'incidenza degli incendi e degli effetti sulla copertura vegetazionale per ciascuna unità ambientale. E' stata realizzata la carta delle unità ambientali e sono stati identificati: 3 sistemi di paesaggio, 4 sottosistemi e 6 unità ambientali, nell'ambito della regione bioclimatica mediterranea. Sono stati eseguiti 75 rilievi fitosociologici e sono state identificate 6 tipologie di vegetazione naturale potenziale: la serie del Quercenion virgilianae, la serie dell'Erico-Quercetum ilicis, la serie del Fraxino-Ulmenion minoris, e le fitotoposequenze relative alle falesie a mare, alle fasce detritiche al piede del falesie, e agli arenili sabbiosi. L'incidenza degli incendi è stata calcolata per ciascuna unità di vegetazione naturale potenziale (periodo 1978-2001) ed è emersa una più alta frequenza del passaggio del fuoco nei versanti settentrionali delle morfologie collinari, soprattutto nei mesi agosto-ottobre. Gli studi in corso hanno messo inoltre in evidenza la scarsa copertura della vegetazione boschiva a causa degli incendi reiterati nel tempo e il ruolo fondamentale che rivestono i terrazzamenti per preservare la risorsa suolo e facilitare il recupero della vegetazione. Parole chiave: incendi, isola mediterranea, vegetazione naturale potenziale, unità ambientali.

For the purpose of evaluating passive cooling effects in summer, a thermal investigation of traditional houses was conducted in the subtropical region of Nepal. The results were as follows: (1) daytime indoor air temperature is 4.6 K less than outdoor air temperature. (2) The daytime surface temperature of the thatched roof is lower than the clay tile and cement tile roof. The results indicate that passive cooling and moisture control effects are found in traditional houses with earthen floors, thatched roof, mud and brick walls and mud vessels which are effective in producing thermal comfort for residents.

The traditional architecture could be one of the key issues for sustainable building design for different climates and cultures. They are well matched and adapted to the climates and cultures by using local building materials and techniques. However, traditional forms of architecture are decreasing dramatically, being replaced by artificial materials, modern designs and alien technology. We need strong policies and sound research to sustain the concepts and practicalities of traditional architecture. Thus, in this chapter, we will discuss the characteristic of the traditional vernacular houses in different climatic zones of Nepal.

Nepal is a mountainous country with low energy use so far and its climatic patterns remarkably differ from one place to another due to its geographical variation. In the north summer is cool and winter severe, while in the south summer is tropical and winter is mild. Indoor thermal environment and household energy use of residential buildings are in general very much associated so that there have been guide a lot of research; however, there has not been sufficient number of such studies focusing on Nepal. In this study, we aim to analyze the current situation of household energy use and indoor thermal environment of residential buildings in three different ecological regions of Nepal. This study was carried out in mountain, hill and terai regions representing cold, temperate and sub-tropical climate in Nepal from 21st December, 2017 to 20th January, 2018. Indoor and outdoor air temperature and humidity were measured by electronic sensors with the help of data logger for every 10-min...

Nepal has sub-tropical to cold regions due to large altitude difference. The traditional houses are well adapted to the local climate with the use of local building materials. However, traditional practice has been diminished by more introduction of the artificial building materials, modern design and new technology. Under this circumstance, some strong policies based on a field research to sustain the traditional architecture with some rational modern metamorphosis is necessary. For this reason, we investigated the wintry indoor thermal environment of traditional houses in three climatic regions of Nepal. We measured the indoor thermal environment all together nine houses in cold, temperate and sub-tropical regions during the winter in December 2016. The houses were found to be eighty percent of the time below 11°C, 16°C and 22°C in cold, temperate and sub-tropical regions, respectively. This result is well attributed to the regional climatic difference and the thermal characterist...

İklim turizm faaliyetleri açısından önemli bir kaynaktır ve turizm tanıtımlarına da dâhil edilmesi gerekmektedir. Bu çalışmada Nevşehir'in iklim ve canlı iklim koşullarının turizm açısından değerlendirilmektedir. Bu koşulların belirlenmesi amacıyla yıl on günlük dönemlere ayrılmış, bu dönemler için fizyolojik eşdeğer sıcaklıklar, ortalama termal algılamalar incelenmiş ve Klimatolojik-Turizm-Bilgilendirme-Şeması oluşturulmuştur. Canlı iklim koşulları yanı sıra hava sıcaklığı, gün ışığı süresi, yağışlı gün sayıları ve yağış miktarı gibi meteorolojik parametrelerin turizm faaliyetleri perspektifinden belirlenmesi insanların kişisel tercihlerine bağlı olarak kendilerine en uygun tatil zamanı belirlemesinde yardımcı olacaktır.

El tipo de condiciones meteorologías que se presentan en un espacio exterior, provocan un tipo de uso del espacio, así como la permanencia del usuario en el mismo, por la sensación de confort provocada por las condiciones climáticas, esto a diferencia de los espacios interiores donde se puede controlar sistemas de enfriamiento o calefacción, lo cual protege al usuario de las condiciones climatológicas. Para la evaluación del confort en espacios exteriores de la ciudad de Tijuana, Baja California, se seleccionó un caso de estudio, en el cual se llevó a cabo la evaluación de sensación térmica percibida, por medio de levantamiento de encuestas de percepción, donde se utilizaron criterios de vestimenta, genero, actividad, edad, permanencia, uso adecuado del sitio, al mismo tiempo que se realizaba la encuesta se tomaba la temperatura de bulbo seco, humedad relativa, el peso y la altura del usuario, se recopilo la información de sensación térmica basado en la norma ISO 7730-2005. Se reali...

This paper argues that environmental aspects of vernacular architecture are culturally situated, and tests this proposition in the relationship between ecology, climatic conditions and architectural culture. The site of our study is the Himalaya of Nepal, where sharp change in altitude and ecology over short distances constrain and fragment human settlement. Migrants have evolved to form delimited ethnic groups occupying delineated areas, and developed local cultures and building traditions. We study and compare plans, sections, use of materials and people&#39;s interpretations of their architecture in several case studies. We examine how these change in relation to shifts in socio-cultural contexts in order to develop an insight into the formation of architectural variety. Our study demonstrates how digressions, differences and contradictions between house construction and environmental performance articulate the socio-cultural process of their formation.

New Zealand climate during the early to middle Miocene was subtropical to warm-temperate, in contrast to the predominance of cool-temperate climates in New Zealand today. Both modern and Miocene environmental settings of New Zealand are strongly moderated by the surrounding ocean. Seasonal moisture deficits occur today in rain shadow regions in New Zealand, but the potential and nature of seasonal moisture deficits under globally warmer conditions is uncertain. Here, we reconstruct seasonal moisture balance (precipitationpotential evapotranspiration) using seasonal temperature and mean annual precipitation estimates derived from early to middle Miocene (23-11 Ma) fossil leaf assemblages, combined with a Penman-Monteith model for potential evapotranspiration. The model incorporates uncertainty in temperature, precipitation, vapor pressure deficit, radiation and wind speed. Our results suggest that three out of nine sites investigated have a very high potential for summer moisture deficits (lowest monthly moisture balance <-90 ± 40 mm month-1), without considering potential differences in intra-annual rainfall. These three sites all have the potential of an annual negative moisture balance (<-230 ± 460 mm year-1). The highest negative moisture balance in New Zealand today is ~-400 mm year-1. Additionally, the three sites with the highest potential for moisture deficits all are from the Manuherikia Group, of which the depositional period may partially overlap with the Middle Miocene Climatic Optimum. Other sites had moderate (lowest monthly moisture balance <-40 ± 50 mm month-1) to low (lowest monthly moisture balance < 45 ± 60 mm month-1) potential for moisture deficits. Moisture deficit potential appeared to be highly dependent on the reconstructed mean annual precipitation. The trend from the early/middle Miocene to middle/late Miocene boundary of decreasing potential for moisture deficits agrees with a global cooling trend and regional increase in precipitation. Our study highlights the importance of potential evapotranspiration in globally warmer conditions, as seasonal moisture deficits may occur even in environments that are considered strongly ocean-moderated, such as New Zealand.

El estimar las temperaturas de confort térmico en espacios exteriores permite obtener información que sirve de base para generar propuestas de diseño, cuyas condiciones ambientales propicien el confort térmico de los usuarios. Se presenta la estimación de temperatura neutral y rangos de confort térmico para espacios exteriores de un parque recreativo, en el período cálido en un clima desértico. El estudio fue desarrollado en Mexicali, Baja California, México. Se diseñó un cuestionario basado en la escala de sensaciones térmicas de ISO 10551, se midieron temperatura de bulbo seco, temperatura de globo gris, humedad relativa y velocidad de viento. Se aplicaron 822 encuestas en julio y agosto del 2008. Se estimaron temperatura neutra y rangos de confort con el método de medias por intervalo de sensación térmica. El análisis se hizo para tres niveles de actividad: pasiva, moderada e intensa y uno combinado con los tres niveles. Los valores de temperatura neutra obtenidos son aproximadam...

Resumen-En las últimas décadas, se está produciendo un incremento de los estudios de las condiciones ambientales interiores de los edificios motivado, fundamentalmente, por el aumento del tiempo de permanencia de las personas en el interior de los mismos. La posibilidad de ajustar las condiciones de confort ambiental interior no solo mejora la calidad de vida de las personas, sino que puede constituir un elemento fundamental tanto en el control del gasto energético como en el control de las emisiones a la atmosfera. Los Estándares de confort térmico se dividen en cuantitativos, (Fanger e ISO 7730) y adaptativos, (ASHRAE 55 y UNE-EN 15251). Aunque los últimos estudios publicados discurren en la línea de considerar que los adaptativos ofrecen resultados más reales, los cuantitativos alcanzan resultados importantes si se complementan con encuestas de opinión de los usuarios. La presente investigación tiene como objetivo estudiar las condiciones

This work presents the bioclimate maps of Jalisco, as a result of the analysis of its climatic information as well as the climatological standard normal data reported in different localities of the state. Higrotermic comfort conditions for humans were also analyzed based on the previously mentioned information. The definition of thermal comfort was based on Auliciems' equation (1990). As for the analysis of temperatures and relative humidity, Olgyay's Bioclimatic chart was adapted to the conditions of the various localities of the state. The maps were elaborated with Arc GIS program, and based on the bioclimate study made and presented in the requiring diagrams of airconditioning. In those diagrams, the conditions of comfort, cool and warm were identified, in order to monthly elaborate maps. After the analysis, It was determined that the problem in the state is warm for most of the year. Reading of maps will permit designers, town planners, architects, mechanicals engineers, and etcetera, to identify the bioclimatic strategies needed to obtain urban planning and architectural results, as well as the use of eco-tecnologies featuring low environmental impact and energy optimization.

Vernacular architecture and settlements are considered culturally meaningful, socially acceptable, locally harmonized, and ecologically sustainable. The traditional buildings seem to be more connected to the local places, environment, culture, indigenous technology and people. However, with the development of new technologies along with increase in population, replacement of these vernacular buildings and settlements has become a regular phenomenon in many of the nations including Nepal. In this regard, considering the case of vernacular buildings and settlements of Rana Tharu from far western region, this paper aims to (i) examine the characteristics of settlement pattern, house form, construction technology, materials and spaces in Rana Tharu settlements; and (ii) identify the changes and crucial factors behind the acceleration of such changes. The paper applies a qualitative approach through explanatory qualitative analysis for exploring the transformation in architectural style,...

Palabras clave/ Confort térmico, espacios públicos, variables climáticas, sensación térmica. Keywords/ Thermal comfort, public spaces, climatic variables, thermal sensation. Recepción/ 20 de abril 2020 Aceptación/ 03 de julio 2020 RESUMEN/ Existen numerosos estudios de métodos que evalúan el confort térmico interior de las edificaciones incorporando criterios de eficiencia energética en el diseño y la arquitectura. Distinto es el caso de los espacios públicos, donde los modelos de evaluación existentes-en su mayoría cuantitativos y cualitativos-se encuentran en proceso de desarrollo. Su enorme complejidad se explica por la gran cantidad de variables involucradas. Algunas de ellas son muy difíciles de precisar en el espacio exterior, ya que se trata de una interacción entre la sensación térmica de las personas y las variables climáticas, que son siempre cambiantes y están, en parte, determinadas por el diseño. Este artículo da cuenta de los hallazgos de un estudio enfocado en la construcción de un esquema de evaluación del confort térmico de los usuarios en el borde costero de la región del Bío Bío. Específicamente, en una obra recientemente construida denominada La Poza, en la ciudad de Talcahuano. Esta investigación nace de la hipótesis según la cual la permanencia de las personas en el espacio público está condicionada en parte por su percepción de confort térmico. En la medida que los ambientes térmicos mejoran, se podría suponer razonablemente que los ocupantes tendrán una mejor experiencia o incluso permanecer o frecuentar más el lugar. Para ello se desarrolló un análisis de percepción térmica mediante la aplicación de encuestas a los usuarios, además de un análisis de radiación solar del sector. Se determinó la correlación entre el uso y el asoleamiento para elaborar un mapa de confort térmico que permitiría identificar las mejoras necesarias o estrategias de diseño.. ABSTRACT/ There are several studies that assess thermal comfort inside buildings, introducing energy efficiency criteria in their design and architecture. The case of public spaces is different though, as most quantitative and qualitative evaluation models are still under development and many variables that increase their complexity. Some of these variables are difficult to specify in outdoor spaces since they deal with the thermal sensation of people and ever changing climate variables partly dependent on their design. This article reveals the findings of a study focused on the preparation of an evaluation scheme of user thermal comfort in the coastal border of the Bio Bio Region, particularly, a recently built work called La Poza in the city of Talcahuano. The research is based on the hypothesis according to which people stay in public spaces in part conditioned by their perception of thermal comfort. As thermal environments improve, it could be reasonably expected that users will improve their experience and even go more often or stay longer in the place. For that, a thermal perception analysis was developed through user surveys and a solar radiation analysis in the area, determining the correlation between use and sunlight to draft a thermal comfort map that will identify required needs or design strategies.