An airport cooled by natural ventilation

The Roland Garros Airport on the French island of Réunion has been cooled using natural ventilation, eliminating the need for air conditioning. The island is known for its high humidity and temperature, making it challenging to keep buildings cool without relying on air conditioning. The airport's design incorporates a series of tunnels and chambers that allow for natural ventilation, using the wind and the surrounding terrain to cool the air. This approach has resulted in significant energy savings, with the airport reducing its energy consumption by 70% compared to traditional air-conditioned airports. The airport's annual energy bill has also been cut by 30%. The natural ventilation system has been in operation since 2011, and the airport has seen a reduction in temperature of up to 10°C compared to the outside temperature. The airport's designers have been recognized for their innovative approach to building design, and the airport has become a model for sustainable building practices in the region.