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- Sustainable Vernacular Architecture to Improve Thermal Comfort in African CountriesPublication . Santos, Michael M.; Ferreira, Ana Vaz; Lanzinha, JoãoThis study highlights the importance of bioclimatic design, passive solar cooling and heating systems, and traditional building materials in improving the sustainability and thermal comfort of vernacular architecture in Africa. The lack of available technology, financial resources, and increasing urban populations are significant challenges in implementing sustainable vernacular architecture. To overcome these challenges, this study suggests creating awareness, providing financial aid, preserving traditional buildings, and implementing sustainable urban-development strategies. The study also emphasizes the need for further research to evaluate the impact of renewable energy solutions, energy-responsive designs, and climate change reduction in traditional settlements to inform the development of sustainable vernacular architecture in Africa. Achieving sustainable vernacular architecture presents an opportunity to promote ecological embeddedness, sustainable architecture, land-use planning, and integrated green infrastructure, leading to improved indoor air quality, reduced energy consumption, and protection of occupant health. Therefore, it is crucial to develop strategies that promote sustainable design, community engagement, and locally sourced materials to create a more sustainable future for African countries, thereby contributing to climate change resilience and adaptation.
- Passive Solar Systems for the Promotion of Thermal Comfort in African Countries: A ReviewPublication . Santos, Michael M.; Ferreira, Ana Vaz; Lanzinha, JoãoGlobally, the residential sector consumes a significant amount of energy. Therefore, bioclimatic architectural systems which consider passive solutions should be studied, analyzed, and implemented to reduce energy consumption. This review aims to promote thermal comfort in African countries by using passive solar systems. It begins with the keyword thermal comfort and then reviews articles published over the last ten years that consider bioclimatic architecture and construction strategies in Africa, the main trends in scientific research in this field, and the possibilities for each climate zone in achieving the highest degree of climate comfort. Following an extensive review, certain bioclimatic architectural strategies adopted in specific countries can be applied in countries with similar climates and this can contribute to significant energy savings through effective functional solar and ventilation design strategies. Several countries have been identified as having the most significant publications on thermal regulations in buildings, and the associated regulations and projects are discussed. Several studies have also examined static and adaptive models of thermal comfort.