Well, at least it’s a break from what felt like never-ending electoral politics news... Here are three green-building perspectives on COVID-19. Plus, a few resources.
Don’t Be Dense
Disease has a history of shaping cities and social interactions. Michele Acuto, director of the Connected Cities Lab at the University of Melbourne’s School of Design gave an interview about the urban planning dimensions of pandemic preparedness. “COVID-19 puts a fundamental challenge to how we manage urbanization. Hong Kong has 17,311 people per square mile. Rethinking density management is a key for long-term survival in a pandemic world,” he said.
On City Lab (1,500 words)
Pandemics Are Also an Urban Planning Problem
It’s Not the Heat...
By now you’ve likely heard that increasing relative humidity in a building helps reduce the spread of viruses. Green building consultant, Peter Yost, takes a close look at the science behind this factoid and what is known about the COVID-19 virus. “There probably is no reason to attempt to change the interior temperature or RH with respect to COVID-19,” he determines. But building science and design still play an important role in reducing infection.
On Green Building Advisor (1,200 words)
Building Science and the Novel Coronavirus
Bidets Shooting Up
One good thing that might come of the COVID-19 response is a breakthrough for bidets in the U.S. market. With a lack of toilet paper on store shelves, people are reportedly looking beyond the recycling bin for more comfortable alternatives. (Full disclosure: I installed a $25 Astor 1000 several months ago and have become a big fan.) Popular everywhere except North America, bidets could save millions of trees annually, according to EarthTalk. Plus, the extra water is nothing compared to what’s used to produce TP.
In Scientific American (550 words)
Wipe or Wash? Do Bidets Save Forest and Water Resources?
PR Goes Viral
Crisis communications aren’t just for recalls and scandals. In a time of disruption or disaster, a company’s reputation can be damaged simply by doing nothing. With emotions high, stakeholders want access to timely and accurate information about what is and isn’t changing.
From New Growth
It’s Time to Institute Crisis Communications for COVID-19
Free Download For You (PDF)
21 Green Building Publications That Want Your Articles
Includes descriptions, rankings and tips on submission
Timely Advice for Small Businesses
In Construction Executive
Coronavirus Legal Considerations for Employers
by Michelle De Oliveira and Esq.
In Architect magazine
Maintaining Business Continuity with a Remote Workforce
by Evelyn Lee
In Remodeling magazine
Steps Businesses Can Take to Address Uncertainty
by Paul Winans
Resources
The Smart Cities Council released COVID-19 Mitigation Roadmap, a collaborative online tool to help cities visualize response plans and collaborate remotely.
To have the New Growth Newsletter delivered to your inbox once a month, join the distribution list.
Please take care of yourself and your neighbors.
Bart King
