This summer, the Chinese mainland has been grappling with intense heat waves. According to data from the China Meteorological Administration, the average temperature in July soared to 23.2 degrees Celsius—the highest since 1961. With two more heat waves expected before mid-August, the need for innovative solutions to combat rising temperatures has never been more pressing.
Experts emphasize that beyond protecting vulnerable populations, there is a crucial need to adapt urban planning and architectural design to address climate change. In southwest China, the city of Chongqing—often referred to as one of the “furnace cities”—is at the forefront of this adaptation.
Chongqing is home to numerous energy-efficient buildings that utilize advanced technologies like shading, ventilation, and heat dissipation to stay cool. A notable example is a building in the city’s Bonded Port Area, which is enveloped in 10,000 square meters of smart glass capable of responding to thermal signals. When the air temperature exceeds 35 degrees Celsius, the glass automatically turns opaque, preventing sunlight and heat from entering—much like a giant sunshade.
“At lower temperatures, the molecules in the smart glass’s polymeric nanogel are evenly dispersed, allowing sunlight to pass through transparently,” explained Zhong Xianqiang, leader of construction projects in the Chongqing Bonded Port Area, in an interview with China Media Group (CMG). “As the temperature rises, these molecules cluster together, refracting and reflecting sunlight across different bands. When combined with two pieces of glass, this system effectively blocks external heat.”
The implementation of such smart technologies in urban buildings represents a significant step towards sustainable living in China’s rapidly urbanizing landscapes. By integrating innovative materials and design principles, cities like Chongqing are not only mitigating the immediate effects of extreme heat but are also setting a precedent for future urban development in the face of global climate change.
Reference(s):
How new tech helps urban buildings in China cool themselves in summer
cgtn.com
