What is it?The Eastgate Centre is Located in Harare, Zimbabwe. The building was built in 1966 and it was inspired by the mounds termites call their homes. Its the largest office and shopping center in the country. The building has no heating or air conditioning, but stays regulated through the ventilation systems inspired by termites. [3]
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Termites build mounds that store their primary food source, fungus, which must be kept at 87 degrees. Their mounds contain vents, which air is sucked in at the lower end, and filtered through the mound and up through the top vent. The Eastgate Centre operates very similarly, but instead of dirt and fungus, is composed of concrete. The air from outside is sucked in depending on if outside or inside is hotter. When the air flows through it is circulated into offices and rooms then exits out the chimney to allow more air in to cool or warm. The building also has many open breeze ways allowing for fresh breezes to enter and exit. [3]
Because the building is known for using less than 10% of an average buildings energy, the owners have saved over 3.5 million dollars strictly because of the air conditioning system that did not have to be implemented. This not only effects the owners, but the renters as well who save up to 20% on renting fees due to the lack of air conditioning units. [3]