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Article
Publication date: 1 June 2017

Jin-Ho Park

An emergency shelter design as an immediate response to assist people in disaster situations was evaluated in this study. The design experiment concerns the use of recyclable…

Abstract

An emergency shelter design as an immediate response to assist people in disaster situations was evaluated in this study. The design experiment concerns the use of recyclable paper tubes and simple construction techniques so that unskilled labor can quickly and readily assemble the shelter where required. The design exercise is a result of a joint effort of a group of architecture students at Inha University with the help of an architect, Shigeru Ban, who is renowned for his innovative work with paper tubes. In the first phase, five different design alternatives for a short term recovery option are proposed and in the second phase, a design was selected and developed on the full scale to demonstrate its design and assembly technique.

Details

Open House International, vol. 42 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0168-2601

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 1 May 2007

Jyotirmoy Dalal, Pratap K.J. Mohapatra and Gopal C. Mitra

This paper aims to present the cyclone shelter location problem as a problem of grouping a set of villages into a minimum number of clusters and finding the location and capacity…

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Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to present the cyclone shelter location problem as a problem of grouping a set of villages into a minimum number of clusters and finding the location and capacity of the shelters.

Design/methodology/approach

Proposes an algorithm to solve the location problem that uses a distance matrix of the villages, applies Elzinga‐Hearn method iteratively to group them into circular clusters, and determines the shelter size. It is implemented in a software package, which reads the village records from a database, executes the steps of the algorithm, and writes the results into a file.

Findings

The villages are grouped into 13 clusters, eight requiring cyclone shelters to be built and five requiring no shelter, taking into consideration the available space in double‐storeyed buildings in the villages. The capacity and location of the each shelter are also obtained.

Research limitations/implications

The approach can be modified to address several practical constraints. For example, for the villages situated far from the coast, the limiting travel distance can be increased, considering that a lesser intensity cyclone would give more time to the villagers to reach the shelter.

Practical implications

Funds are available from a number of public and private organizations to construct cyclone shelters, which could be used properly only when optimal locations for the cyclone shelters are identified.

Originality/value

Originality of the work lies in adapting Elzinga‐Hearn method iteratively to group the villages into circular clusters and implementing the algorithm in software solution. The concerned authority, to take cyclone shelter location decisions, can use the software.

Details

Disaster Prevention and Management: An International Journal, vol. 16 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0965-3562

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 8 May 2024

Ghassan Elkahlout, Sansom Milton and Ruba Hawa

The purpose of this paper is to explore the feasibility of mud brick houses as an alternative to the more widely adopted emergency shelters used in war-torn Syria. It focuses on…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the feasibility of mud brick houses as an alternative to the more widely adopted emergency shelters used in war-torn Syria. It focuses on the mud houses’ sustainability, cost effectiveness, cultural preference, income generation and security.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses a qualitative research approach to a single case study. Interviews were conducted with field experts from the Qatar Red Crescent Society and members of the internally displaced persons (IDPs) community living in mud brick houses.

Findings

The findings reveal that the utilisation of mud houses is a good alternative in relief efforts. The houses are sustainable and cost-effective, take into consideration cultural dynamics and provide economic empowerment to IDPs. However, the maintenance of mud brick houses turns out to be the largest flaw, and this problem requires further research.

Originality/value

The paper highlights the inefficiency of current emergency sheltering practices in Syria and reveals that tents are not a preferred mode of shelter. It further sheds light on a unique case study in which mud houses were used by an aid and development organisation, highlighting its strengths and weaknesses. This paper contributes to practical discussion and ideation on more appropriate housing for IDPs.

Details

International Journal of Disaster Resilience in the Built Environment, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1759-5908

Keywords

Abstract

Details

Addressing Xenophobia in South Africa: Drivers, Responses and Lessons from the Durban Untold Stories
Type: Book
ISBN: 978-1-80262-480-9

Book part
Publication date: 24 June 2024

Ronald Paul Hill and Girish Ramani

There are multiple threats that cause consumers to be vulnerable in the marketplace, with poverty being a leading cause. Impoverishment often negatively impacts access to multiple…

Abstract

There are multiple threats that cause consumers to be vulnerable in the marketplace, with poverty being a leading cause. Impoverishment often negatively impacts access to multiple categories of goods and services that consumers require to experience a reasonable quality of life. While there is research that explores the underlying factors that lead to resource deficits and marketplace restrictions, as well as their physical and emotional outcomes, an understanding of what is necessary to survive and thrive across societies is more elusive. To this end, our chapter carefully examines the concept of consumption adequacy (CA), which historically captures consumer needs for food and potable water, socially acceptable clothing adapted to weather conditions, safe housing that provides for privacy needs of occupants, preventative and remedial health care, and opportunities to grow and advance through education and training. After briefly summarizing the extant literature, each is described in turn, and ways of empirically investigating them across societies are advanced. This chapter closes with both marketer and public policy implications.

Abstract

Subject Area

Consumer Behavior.

Study Level

This case is suitable to be used in advanced undergraduate and MBA/MSc level.

Case Overview

This case illustrates an animal shelter’s challenge pertaining to lack of awareness among individuals with regard to animal adoption and proper treatment toward animals. Brian Teoh, the founder of a local animal shelter “We Care For You (WCFY),” was really worried by observing the situation of the animals’ vulnerability as well as pet owners’ irresponsible behavior. Overpopulation in animal shelters is a common problem. The space of the shelter is limited and not enough to take more animals to take care unless existing animals are being adopted by the pet owners. Adoption is a way to give room for other animals to be taken by animal shelters. However, most of the individuals prefer to buy rather to adopt. Moreover, potential adopters are usually selective of the animal they intend to adopt by having criteria preferences for adoption. Brian was thinking how to make people aware about the animal right and proper treatment with animals and also how to make individuals aware about the necessity to adopt rather than purchasing them. He was drowned in deep thought. Although the situation seemed not so promising, he felt determined to work on this awareness-building issue.

Expected Learning Outcomes

This objective of this case is to:

  • highlight the challenges faced by the animal shelters in order to make individuals aware of the importance of adopting animals rather than purchasing them from shops;

  • emphasize the importance of using social media in disseminating information nationwide; and

  • the necessity to educate people about the right treatment toward animals.

highlight the challenges faced by the animal shelters in order to make individuals aware of the importance of adopting animals rather than purchasing them from shops;

emphasize the importance of using social media in disseminating information nationwide; and

the necessity to educate people about the right treatment toward animals.

Details

Green Behavior and Corporate Social Responsibility in Asia
Type: Book
ISBN: 978-1-78756-684-2

Keywords

Book part
Publication date: 24 September 2010

Milton C. Regan

Misconduct by lawyers in law firms is often attributed to pressures from increasing competition for legal services. Modern firms do face fierce competitive pressures. We can gain…

Abstract

Misconduct by lawyers in law firms is often attributed to pressures from increasing competition for legal services. Modern firms do face fierce competitive pressures. We can gain more subtle insights, however, by focusing on the specific markets in which particular firms operate and how forms of influence in law firms interact with common patterns of behavior in organizations. This chapter draws on this approach to analyze the experience of Jenkens & Gilchrist, a national law firm that had to close its doors in 2007 because of tax shelter work that triggered civil lawsuits and government investigations.

Details

Special Issue Law Firms, Legal Culture, and Legal Practice
Type: Book
ISBN: 978-0-85724-357-7

Article
Publication date: 29 August 2023

Erik Velasco and Elvagris Segovia

Waiting for a bus may represent a period of intense exposure to traffic particles in hot and noisy conditions in the street. To lessen the particle load and tackle heat in bus…

Abstract

Purpose

Waiting for a bus may represent a period of intense exposure to traffic particles in hot and noisy conditions in the street. To lessen the particle load and tackle heat in bus stops a shelter was equipped with an electrostatic precipitator and a three-step adiabatic cooling system capable of dynamically adjust its operation according to actual conditions. This study evaluates the effectiveness of the Airbitat Oasis Smart Bus Stop, as the shelter was called, to provide clean and cool air.

Design/methodology/approach

The particle exposure experienced in this innovative shelter was contrasted with that in a conventional shelter located right next to it. Mass concentrations of fine particles and black carbon, and particle number concentration (as a proxy of ultrafine particles) were simultaneously measured in both shelters. Air temperature, relative humidity and noise level were also measured.

Findings

The new shelter did not perform as expected. It only slightly reduced the abundance of fine particles (−6.5%), but not of ultrafine particles and black carbon. Similarly, it reduced air temperature (−1 °C), but increased relative humidity (3%). Its operation did not generate additional noise.

Practical implications

The shelter's poor performance was presumably due to design flaws induced by a lack of knowledge on traffic particles and fluid dynamics in urban environments. This is an example where harnessing technology without understanding the problem to solve does not work.

Originality/value

It is uncommon to come across case studies like this one in which the performance and effectiveness of urban infrastructure can be assessed under real-life service settings.

Details

Smart and Sustainable Built Environment, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2046-6099

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 28 September 2022

Rupa Kalahasthi, Jacob Wadsworth, Cory A. Crane, Jonathan Toole, Cassandra Berbary and Caroline J. Easton

Homelessness is a growing concern across the globe that has multiplied during the pandemic. According to a recent report by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD…

Abstract

Purpose

Homelessness is a growing concern across the globe that has multiplied during the pandemic. According to a recent report by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD, 2018), 20% of the homeless population have a severe mental illness and 16% chronically used substances. This paper aims to address the effectiveness of in-shelter mental health services provided by qualified clinicians.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study, clients from a homeless shelter were provided in-shelter mental health intake and resources by predoctoral clinicians. Their pre- and postdistress scores were recorded to establish the effectiveness of the intervention.

Findings

Ninety-eight guests were provided services of which 51% reported co-occurring mental health and substance use diagnoses. There was a clinically significant difference in the pre- to postsession distress levels based on the ratings at the intake session. It was noted that making services accessible increased the ability to provide triage services, help with housing options and integrate care with other providers and decrease distress levels.

Research limitations/implications

The current program was implemented in only one shelter in Upstate New York, other similar settings need to be explored in different locations. Objective indicators will be analyzed in the future to establish the effectiveness of services.

Practical implications

This paper outlines a procedure that can guide and help future projects to establish clinical care at homeless shelters across the USA and globally. This paper provides examples of the intake form, list of resources and basic coping strategies that can aid other clinicians and researchers to establish similar programs.

Social implications

This paper sheds light on the mental health needs of an underserved and underrepresented population in the field of mental health – the homeless. The guidelines outlined in this paper can help set up more mental health clinics at homeless shelters and make mental health services more accessible, which can help prevent recurring homelessness.

Originality/value

This paper establishes guidelines for effective single session interventions that help decrease distress levels. This paper also establishes the need for in-shelter services to overcome barriers in mental health care for the homeless population.

Details

Advances in Dual Diagnosis, vol. 15 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1757-0972

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 9 November 2022

Merve Cerrahoğlu and Feray Maden

The most important need after natural disasters is the sheltering. However, most of the existing temporary shelters do not meet all requirements for long-term use and not provide…

Abstract

Purpose

The most important need after natural disasters is the sheltering. However, most of the existing temporary shelters do not meet all requirements for long-term use and not provide adequate flexibility within the space. This paper aims to develop a transitional postdisaster shelter transforming from a closed shape to an expanded form in response to changing functional and spatial needs of disaster victims. The study also proposes alternative unit combinations for various functions, and settlement layouts to create a comfortable living environment for occupants.

Design/methodology/approach

The research methodology is based on theoretical and design frameworks which requires inductive and deductive approaches. Forming the background of the study, the theoretical framework consists of four parts which are literature review on temporary shelters presenting state-of-the-art; determination of design guidelines and strategies based on shelter standards; identification of technical requirements; and analysis of existing temporary shelters. Having three parts, the design framework includes design of transformable transitional shelter based on three-dimensional modeling, creation of different unit combinations to be used for various purposes and development of settlement layouts as case studies.

Findings

The analysis conducted in this study demonstrates that most of the existing temporary shelters have limited geometric configurations and major problems in terms of their performance, transportation and storage. On the other hand, the transformable shelter proposed by the authors can provide form and spatial flexibilities thanks to its expansion properties, occupy less space for transportation, easily be transported to any desired location in its compact state and be customized according to user needs. Several units can be combined either to serve larger families or to be used for different functions.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to the literature as presenting not only a theoretical framework on temporary shelters but also a design framework on transformable shelter design for the ones who are willing to develop similar transformable shelters based on the determined guidelines, strategies and requirements.

Details

International Journal of Disaster Resilience in the Built Environment, vol. 15 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1759-5908

Keywords

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