Breaking AI & Tech News Analyzed

The Rise of Shading Solutions in the UK The UK is facing increasingly severe heatwaves, driven by the climate crisis. As temperatures soar, residents are seeking innovative solutions to shade their homes and protect themselves from the heat. Brise-Soleil: A French Solution to UK Heat Marc Alabaster, a graphic designer from West Sussex, discovered the concept of brise-soleil, a French term meaning 'sun-breaker', while on holiday in Spain. Brise-soleil involves installing louvre-like rows of angled fins or blades that shade external walls against the sun. Alabaster now owns Brise Soleil UK, which provides this shading solution to homeowners. The Market for Shading Solutions The demand for shading solutions has surged, with companies like Shaded and Shade Solutions reporting increased sales. Shaded's founder, Aimée Daniels, designed a mini awning that clips to sash window frames, providing an affordable and renter-friendly solution. Shaded's mini awning starts at £89. Shade Solutions' luxury sail shades can cost several thousand pounds. The Impact of Shading on Internal Temperatures Research by Ben Roberts at Loughborough University found that external shading can reduce internal temperatures by 6C. This is much more effective than internal shading alone. Adapting to the Climate Crisis As the UK experiences more frequent and severe heatwaves, adapting to the climate crisis becomes essential. Chartered engineer Tom Greenhill advocates for low-cost solutions, such as smearing yoghurt on windows to reduce solar gain. A Shift in Perspective Mina Hasman, co-chair of RIBA's Climate Expert Advisory Group, notes that shading is no longer just about glare or privacy but also about compliance, resilience, and public health. As the UK continues to experience extreme heat, shading solutions will play a crucial role in mitigating the effects of climate change.