A study from the University of Oregon has laid the foundation for a new level of architectural outcome: how the materials of buildings can facilitate healthy kinds of bacteria while managing the pernicious sort.
Shaunacy Ferro shares news of a study out of the University of Oregon that makes a detailed account of the variety of bacteria that inhabit the different surfaces and environments of buildings.
“Scientists haven't yet begun to pinpoint exactly which types of bacteria are good for our health, but when they do, architecture could play a key role in exposing us to the good bacteria, and keeping us away from the bad,” writes Ferro.
According to study co-author James Meadow, the findings of the report will enable architects to design buildings that influence the types of bacteria encountered by users. “Instead of just sterilizing the environment, we’ll actually manage our buildings in a more sensible way."
Read the full story: How Architecture Could Shape Your Microbiome
Mapping the World of Bacteria Alive in the World's Subways
A project launched several years ago in New York City is making its way to cities around the world—much like the bacteria that the world's billions of transit users transfer around the surfaces of subway trains, stations, and buses.
As Texans face soaring electricity costs, a public health crisis looms
Demand for electricity in Texas is surging, largely driven by data centers and other industries, and residential customers are footing the bill.
America faces a 'fun shortage'
The United States has lost nearly a third of its bowling alleys and a fifth of its movie theaters since 2001.
Planetizen Federal Action Tracker
A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.
‘Going backwards:’ Baltimore mayor, students rally against state's transit funding plan
Maryland's proposed six-year plan provides no funding for Baltimore’s BMORE bus program and reduces its road maintenance funding.
Detroit to transform waterfront with $2.2 billion investment
Developers will convert about 18 acres of unused parking lot space into civic spaces.
HUD, USDA agree on framework to simplify housing environmental review standards
Their agreement is a requirement of the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act.
Cost of water rising at a faster pace than inflation, median household income
California and Maryland residents have seen their water bills grow especially high.
NYC building owners overwhelmingly comply with new emissions limits
The New York City Department of Buildings is fining owners who did not file emissions reports.
FREE Course: Walkable City 1: Why Walkability?
After describing his path towards focusing on walkability as the essence of good planning, Jeff Speck marches through his five principal reasons for making more walkable places.
Reinventing Malls: Planning Alchemy—Turning Gray Fields Into Gold
The course focuses on the opportunities and imperatives that shape reinvention of mall sites.
planning NEXT
City of Thousand Oaks
City of Wisconsin Rapids
The Architects Foundation
University of Cincinnati Online
Northern Illinois Transit Authority (NITA)
The Pocatello Development Authority
The Urban Renewal Agency of the City of Pocatello