Colleges Struggle To Adapt to Extreme Heat

(From Inside Higher Ed) Colleges and universities on the West Coast are feeling the effects of the latest heat wave, as some schools have closed their campus or canceled outdoor activities due to record-breaking temperatures and lack of air conditioning. At University of Washington, administrators had to issue extra fans to keep visitors attending academic conferences on campus cool this summer and modify employee uniforms because of the heat.

It has traditionally been cost-effective to avoid air conditioning in climate environments where the average temperature doesn't get high and when the buildings are used primarily during the cooler season. However, as the effects of climate change continue to impact schools, institutions may need to rethink future-proofing and designs when it comes to school facilities, said Josh Gana, facilities and physical environment director at the Association of College and University Housing Officers–International.