Title

Earthen Housing for Climate Adaptation: Friend or Foe?

Speaker

Sharon Chow (CCOUC, The Chinese University of Hong Kong/ Cambridge Public Health, The University of Cambridge)

Moderator

Dr Chunlan Guo (CCOUC, CUHK)

Date

May 22^nd, 2026 (Friday)

Time

3:30 pm – 4:30 pm (UTC+8)

Venue

KCTCRC, 1/F School of Public Health Building, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital

Format

Hybrid seminar (Face-to-face + Zoom)

Language

English

Abstract

Housing plays a crucial role in supporting rural communities to adapt to climate extremes. This presentation explores the potential of earthen housing to support ageing communities in Gansu, China, in adapting to cold stress. Taking a systems perspective, it examines the interrelationships between housing conditions, behaviours, climate, and health, alongside the factors shaping villagers’ decisions towards health interventions.

The presentation argues that earthen housing is neither inherently inferior or superior. Instead, its capacity to protect health depends on the integrity of the building envelope, socio-economic conditions, behavioural adaptations, and age-related vulnerabilities. By exploring why earthen housing works, under what conditions and for whom, the presentation highlights the importance of climate-resilient and equitable approaches that are age-sensitive, culturally grounded, and responsive to local economic realities.

Registration

     https://cuhk.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_8p04WJJCEjZ8Qjc