Ventilating our high-rise compact city– Tackling the phenomena of wind weakening

Reduced city ventilation is a major cause of the heat island phenomenon, and a determinant of air quality in Hong Kong and other cities. The ventilation of air and wind flows is fundamental for removing heat and airborne pollutants in cities, particularly in high-rise compact cities such as Hong Kong with a high population density and a high concentration of tall buildings.

Hong Kong’s air has become increasingly stagnant. This worrying trend continues, but no research exists to explain it and no strategy has been developed to stop it.

A research group from the Faculty of Engineering at the University of Hong Kong carried out some studies using theoretical analyses, wind tunnel and water channel modelling, field measurement and computer modelling for ideal cities in order to identify the physics of wind. The research group is led by Professor Li Yuguo, Head of HKU Department of Mechanical Engineering. The new understanding can also be used to guide urban ventilation planning in rapidly developing cities in the region and around the world.

Professor Li Yuguo is presented with the University Outstanding Researcher Award 2014 for his exceptional achievements in the research area.

A media briefing will be held on April 2, 2015 (Tomorrow) to introduce the key features of the research and its application in urban ventilation planning.

Details of the media interview are as follows:

Date: April 2, 2015 (Tomorrow)

Time: 11:00 am to 12:00noon

Venue: Laboratory, Department of Mechanical Engineering, G/F, Yam Pak Building, The University of Hong Kong (Exit C1, MTR HKU Station) (Map)

Speaker: Professor Li Yuguo, Head of HKU Department of Mechanical Engineering, HKU

For media enquiries, please contact:

HKU Communications and Public Affairs Office Ms. Rhea Leung (tel: 2857 8555/ 9022 7446/ email: [email protected]) or

HKU Faculty of Engineering Miss. Nancy Cheung (tel: 2219 4668 email: [email protected]).