Anika Nawer Meem
- Country of Origin: Bangladesh
- Home University: Stamford University Bangladesh
- Host University & Country: The University of British Columbia - Canada
- PhD Title: Tree-Mimicking Building Panels for Passive Evaporative Cooling
- Year of Completion: 2030
PhD Overview
My PhD research develops tree-mimicking building panels for passive evaporative cooling. Inspired by how trees transport water and release it through their leaves, these panels combine cellulose-based water pathways with hydrogels to draw and evaporate water without powered pumping. I use laboratory experiments and heat and mass transfer modelling to evaluate cooling performance, water use, and the conditions needed for reliable operation.
Sustainability Goals
- Affordable and Clean Energy
- Climate Action
- Sustainable Cities and Communities
About Me
The goal is to develop an effective cooling approach that could reduce dependence on electricity-intensive air conditioning. This is particularly relevant to Bangladesh, where urban heat and limited access to affordable cooling place vulnerable communities at risk. Through future collaboration with local universities and community partners, I aim to adapt and test the technology for climate-resilient buildings.