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Saving precious energy is a major concern for the modern human civilization. Scientists are finding new avenues to save energy. The study of termite-mound (plate 4A) has revealed helpful facts that would save energy. At the Eastgate Centre in Harare, Zimbabwe, has provided one of the best of green architectures and ecologically sensitive adaptation. “The country’s largest office and shopping complex is an architectural marvel in its use of Biomimicry principles. The mid-rise building has no conventional air-conditioning or heating, yet stays regulated year round with dramatically less energy consumption using design methods inspired by indigenous Zimbabwean masonry and the self-cooling mounds of African termites!”
(Read more: Log In » | Inhabitat - Sustainable Design Innovation, Eco Architecture, Green Building; Nov. 5, 2012)
A small insect like termite has appeared to have fantastic defence mechanism against hostile nature. The continuous circulation of fresh air (plate 4B) shows the airflow from bottom to upper level keeps the inside temperature stable during the day and night, summer and winter. Interestingly termites keep changing their air-passages. The old passages are replaced by the new ones. Zimbabwe has successfully implemented the said technic and has proved its relevance in the modern day urban planning.
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Plate 5 Termite Ventilation Chambers |
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