At VEXO International, we believe everyone can make a difference and help solve the climate crisis. This is why we are supporting the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) UK Chapter to raise funds for the research of sustainable and Net Zero technologies.
Annually, ASHRAE raises over US$2 million, in funds for research projects and student grant-in-aids. These contributions, made by over 6,700 individuals and companies, directly support research efforts that benefit the Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration (HVAC&R) industry.
VEXO’s own founder and managing director, Darren Wilkinson, MASHRAE, has recently taken part in a challenging expedition that aimed to raise awareness about the effects of climate change and the importance of sustainability in the HVAC sector. This adventure was not just about the journey through the jungle, but also about making a real difference!
Buildings contribute to approximately staggering 39% of global energy related carbon (Source: World Green Building Council). Darren hopes that by raising awareness to ASHRAE Research Promotion, we will fast-track action.
Below are a series of VLOGs, highlighting what he and his fellow expeditionary team experienced within the natural world around them. If you feel inspired to doante please head over to the link below.
A Grueling Start in the Langkawi Jungle!
First day in the jungle was all about adjusting to the intense heat, humidity, and the weight of my gear! 🌴 With a 40-45 lb bergen and a parang at my side, it was a battle against rising body temperature and fatigue.
The relief of reaching basecamp and submerging into a small river was an unforgettable reset! Despite the challenges, this journey is all about resilience.
Facing the Jungle Elements Head-On!
Day two brought unexpected trials – from scorpions in our bags to the relentless leeches! 🦂 Every step was a reminder of how alive the jungle is.
A Grayl filtration system was our lifeline for safe drinking water, and I definitely learned to ration it carefully. Trekking through the thick undergrowth with leeches and muddy trails showed just how challenging this environment is.
Teamwork and Jungle Survival Skills
Building an emergency shelter in the heart of the jungle was a lesson in teamwork and survival. 💪
Using only our parang and local materials, we constructed a refuge in an unforgiving landscape. The jungle tests every skill and every relationship!
Climbing to New Heights and Facing My Limits
The challenge reached new levels today as we scaled Langkawi’s highest mountain. With the heat and humidity at their peak, exhaustion hit hard 🥵 – but we pushed on!
From jungle trails to steep scrambles, this was no easy feat, but the view from the summit made it all worthwhile. Catch my mountaintop reflections in the VLOG, and please support the ASHRAE UK
Emerging from the Jungle with New Perspective
This day marked the end of the jungle phase, and it was surreal. Five days of heat, humidity, and endless leeches culminated in this final trek out of the jungle. 🙌
I’ll never forget the powerful lessons from this experience. Watch the VLOG for our last jungle memories, and if you feel inspired, support ASHRAE’s mission by donating.
Island Survival and Jungle Reflections
After a brief rest, we embarked on a final island phase, practicing survival skills and even tackling a beach cleanup to address the tragic effects of plastic pollution on marine life. 🌊
My jungle and island journey with the team is a memory I’ll cherish forever. As I wrap up this series, I want to thank everyone for following along. Please consider supporting the ASHRAE UK Chapter by donating on the link below. Every bit counts!
Energy demand reduction requires a multi-scale approach, from national policies to individual building strategies. Discover insights from the CIBSE 2024 Symposium and how VEXO’s innovative
As winter approaches, it’s crucial to ensure your HVAC system is running efficiently to avoid costly breakdowns. Discover how to prepare your HVAC for the
In today’s fast-paced and technologically driven world, it’s easy to forget the fundamental importance of designing spaces that prioritise human well-being. This blog discusses key
