Welsh scientists are intrigued by the idea of people living and working in tall buildings that have the ability to ‘sway’. This new concept is being explored by researchers from Swansea University, alongside teams from Cardiff University, the University of Exeter, and the University of Bath. The focus is on the environmental impact of constructing rigid buildings versus allowing them to flex like trees in the wind.
Professor Ian Walker, an environmental psychologist from Swansea University, pointed out that a significant amount of carbon emissions results from the materials used in building construction. Tall buildings are designed to withstand wind forces by using excessive concrete and steel, contributing to millions of tonnes of carbon emissions globally.
Professor Alex Pavic from the University of Exeter highlighted the necessity for tall buildings to sway due to wind exposure. The research team questions whether such heavy construction materials are truly essential to counteract building motion or if people could adapt to living in slightly swaying structures. Dr. Jennifer Davies from Cardiff University emphasized how individuals can adjust to movement, drawing a comparison to travelling in a swaying train.
The £1.2m UKRI-funded LOCAST (Low-Carbon Structures) project aims to investigate the feasibility of living and working in swaying buildings. A sophisticated structural motion simulator will be used to replicate building movement while assessing how it impacts occupants. This interdisciplinary approach involves structural engineers, physiologists, and psychologists to understand the physiological and psychological aspects of residing in such structures.
The study findings will be shared with the construction industry to promote the development of more lightweight buildings, leading to global cost and carbon savings. This research underscores the potential for a shift in building standards towards more sustainable and flexible structures.