Sao Paulos Climate Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Sao Paulos Climate - Case Study Example This climate has remained relatively stable for decades; the last reported snow storm occurred in 1918 (Sau Paoulo Climate and Weather). Sao Paulo is the richest city in Brazil and the southern hemisphere, and it is also the most populated. It holds over 11,000,000 residents and is over 1500 square kilometers. The city is growing at such a fast and expansive rate that much of its infrastructure has had difficulty evolving and meeting the needs of the growth. Energy production has therefore been very, very chaotic. The state has been able to produce more electicity than the plants in both Argentina and Chile, but because of the constant increase in population, power outages are becoming a presence and a threat. An increase in the electrical supply of the city is needed. Furthermore, the existence of geothermal plants, as well as imports of natural gas and cogeneration are becoming more vital to the city's survival (Henkin). With these problems in mind, it is important to consider the question: To what extent do "ecological" materials satisfy the thermal necessities of a building in a city of Tropical climate as So Paulo With the current energy crisis abounding, it appears that necessities provided by energy, including air conditioning in climate control, are being threatened. However, considering the fact that this is a city in a tropical climate, one item that the city may wish to consider and invest in is that of solar power. Solar power could help to answer the energy crisis, and thus also assist with the thermal necessities in a city in a tropical climate. While the initial investment may be costly, the strategy would certainly pay for itself in the end, benefit the city overall, and help to solve the problems of energy existing today. Urban heat in the island areas itself has been a reported problem that could be put to use and gain significant energy features. For instance, many islanders report that the climate can be quite hot in February. Since this is an island affected by its location under the equator, heat can be extreme at the peak seasons. This means that buildings will be using more climate control features, such as air conditioning, to protect customers and themselves from inevitable health concerns, like heat stroke. Further energy shortages are always expected during these months because of this inevitable behavior. However, if the heat and sunlight can be harnessed and put into good effect, it could actually solve the energy efficiency problem, and thus the island could use one of its own energy resources to help with the climate during the hotter months. The sunlight exposure present at Sao Paulo also brings a few other items to light that one must need to consider. This concept is that of electromagnetic radiation, including UVA, UVG, and UVC. Most individuals know that some sun exposure, if it is slight, can be beneficial to one's health. In fact, a lack of sunlight can make individuals feel depressed. However, too much sun is also dangerous, and can cause detrimental effects to one's health, including sunburns, heatstroke, and skin cancer. These factors need to be considered for those living in the city. Works Cited Henkin, S. "Sao Paulo: Urbanization Run Amok." World and I, Vol. 14, August 1999. Sau Paulo