Climate change is coming in hot (and humid): Are you ready for it?

This presentation addresses the challenge of managing indoor air quality amid rising ambient humidity from climate change, drawing on experiences from the hot, humid climate in Cairns. It will explore case studies and insights from analysing buildings with humidity-induced IAQ issues, emphasising the need for strategic ventilation and humidity control.

Reflecting on the paradox where increased outdoor air for ventilation and standard “out of the box” solutions sometimes exacerbate problems, the session highlights the balance required in approaches to ventilation and energy efficiency with humidity control and IAQ. By sharing knowledge on navigating these challenges, the talk aims to prepare HVAC engineers for ensuring healthy, comfortable indoor environments in the face of a changing climate. 

About Sonia

Sonia, co-founder of Cairns-based firm SEQUAL, holds a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, a graduate diploma in code compliance from AIRAH, and a master’s degree in engineering science from UNSW. With her entire career dedicated to Queensland’s far north, Sonia has emerged as a leading expert in overcoming the challenges associated with condensation in the hot-humid tropics.

Chairing the Women of AIRAH STG and participating in the Standards Australia ME-62 Committee and Engineers Australia Mechanical College, Sonia passionately advocates for gender equality, aiming to boost diversity in STEM education and the engineering sector, thereby inspiring women to explore and excel in these fields.