Sydney Students Pioneer Innovative Climate Solutions Amidst Record Heat
The world has experienced its hottest three years on record, with south-eastern Australia recently enduring record-breaking heatwaves. In response, university students in Sydney are developing innovative solutions to mitigate the effects of a warming climate. Their designs include cooling devices, air purifiers, and re-imagined bus shelters aimed at improving urban comfort and resilience.
Cooling the Streets with Terracol
Isabella Bucknell from the University of Technology Sydney (UTS) created Terracol, a 2.2-meter vertical cooling system designed for street lights. This system passively cools the surrounding area using collected rainwater. Sensors release water into chambers with terracotta panels, naturally cooling the air by approximately six degrees Celsius.
A secondary layer uses a polymer composite phase change material to absorb heat during the day and release it at night.
An AI program calculated the system could cool temperatures within a 4-meter radius, aiming to make outdoor environments more comfortable during peak heat.
Purifying Air on Train Platforms with Luft
Fellow UTS student Freya Rollo developed Luft, an air purification module intended for installation on train platform walls. The aluminum-coated pod contains fans and a dual-filter system (pre-filter and HEPA carbon activated filter) for efficient air purification.
The system is designed for low maintenance, requiring servicing three to four times annually, and includes fire retardant to meet safety standards.
AI modeling indicated the system could filter 300 square meters of air per hour, creating a 2-3 meter bubble of clean air for commuters.
The design also incorporates a QR code for public education on air pollution.
Reimagining Bus Shelters: The Canopy Project
Five students from the University of Sydney designed The Canopy Project, tasked by Sweltering Cities and Blacktown City Council to re-imagine bus stops in Western Sydney's Schofields. This initiative addresses the urban heat island effect, given that only 37 percent of bus stops in Schofields previously offered shelter, seating, or shade. The project offers a three-tiered solution to fit various space requirements.
The 'Canopy' design is a larger bus stop featuring a solar panel, native plants, a bladeless ceiling fan, an interactive display, a micro-library, and seating made from hempcrete and recycled timber.
The 'Sapling' design is smaller, including a solar panel, bladeless ceiling fan, and local artwork.
The smallest, 'Seedling,' provides a button-controlled adjustable shade with a solar panel over a circular seat with an interactive display. The team aims for these designs to encourage public transport use and community engagement.
Addressing Root Causes: Expert Perspective
Ian Lowe, an emeritus professor of science, technology, and society at Griffith University, emphasized the importance of addressing the root causes of climate change.
He noted that recent extreme summers are projected to become normal within a decade.
Professor Lowe also highlighted the crucial role of undergraduate students in learning about sustainability, as their future professional choices will impact the prospect of a sustainable future.