Ecohacking: Web Based Analytics Driving the Urban Sustainability Transition - John McKibbin

One of the most exciting developments in urban sustainability research and policy in recent years has been the emergence of ‘ecohacking’. Beginning around 5 years ago, we’ve witnessed the emergence of a swathe of innovations applying the latest data science and web technology to drive sustainable behaviors and the uptake of efficient appliances, renewables and other technologies. This seminar will provide a snapshot of recent work emerging from Australia.

Key subjects will include: 1) processes and tools for integrating, analyzing and visualizing urban environmental performance data including web-based data platforms and browser-based interactive visualization tools 2) analyses and tools for simulating and forecasting the energy and water requirements of buildings, precincts and cities including end use modelling, building and appliance stock modelling and building services modelling 3) analyses and tools for assessing alternative energy and water servicing opportunities including efficiency measures (e.g. efficient appliances), distributed resource measures (solar PV, rainwater harvesting) and network infrastructure measures (e.g. network augmentations)

The seminar will attempt to draw links with recent work in the US, with a view to identify collaboration opportunities between Australia and the US.