Optimising Comfort in Rural Villages of SW China

The rapid economic development of China has led to fast growth of its cities but also seen as increasingly important are its rural areas which were somewhat left behind in recent development; there are now many policies aiming to rebalance the variation. There are in addition particular circumstances impacting on redevelopment and design and construction which arises from the ethnic/nationality groupings to be found in SW China. One of the consequences of the rapid rural redevelopment is a focus more on acquisition of dwelling features found in urban apartments, rather than designing for the local climate and long-term sustainability. New dwellings are being constructed which whilst meeting the needs and requirements of the residents for more modern accommodation are not taking advantage of the potential to improve environmental design nor for occupant thermal comfort. Bioclimatic analysis and energy simulation software has been used to evaluate potential for improved dwelling design in the regions of interest. Results for five major city areas are presented and this demonstrates substantial opportunity to improve bioclimatic design and also to reduce discomfort. A research and practice network is helping draw stakeholders together to support and enhance future development and impact on choices being made so as to improve environmental outcomes.