The University of Exeter, in collaboration with industry and academic leaders, continues to lead groundbreaking innovations aimed at decarbonising the built environment. One breakthrough is the development of the Met.box, a climate-modelling tool designed to inform architects and engineers on how future climate conditions will affect new and retrofitted buildings.
Unlike traditional methods that rely on historical weather data, Met.box projects future climate scenarios, providing invaluable insights on variables like thermal loads and extreme weather risks. These insights enable better decisions on energy systems, materials, and future-proofing designs, especially in regions prone to climate-related impacts like extreme heat or flooding. Dr. Matt Eames, a senior lecturer in Mechanical Engineering at Exeter, added,
“The resilience of the built environment and our ability to achieve net zero is dependent on tools like this. They are fundamental in helping us achieve these goals”
This tool, developed in partnership with Japan’s Takenaka Corporation, is already being applied to decarbonisation projects, ensuring that structures are not only energy efficient but also resilient against the increasing severity of climate events.
With the world inching closer to key climate thresholds, tools like Met.box highlight the importance of engineering and climate science working together. As Professor Mat Collins of Exeter University noted,
“Climate change is not some problem for the future. It is happening now,”
Underscoring the urgency for all industries to adopt climate-forward planning.
Exeter’s approach doesn’t stop at buildings. Through local initiatives like the Local Climate Adaptation Tool (LCAT), the university is also aiding municipalities in creating resilient infrastructure. This allows decision-makers to forecast the impacts of climate change on local communities and infrastructure. Associate Professor Emma Bland emphasised,
“LCAT responds by bringing the evidence to those who need it in a user-friendly way. It pulls together the best available data to provide local climate forecasts and makes recommendations for action, underpinned by evidence”
In the grand scheme, Exeter’s work is a reminder that while global targets are crucial, localised, practical solutions may just be the key to securing a sustainable future for all.
