The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-conditioning Engineers is currently seeking papers for a conference focused on the design, construction, and operation of buildings in developing economies.

Organized by ASHRAE along with the Philippines chapter, the “Efficient, High Performance Buildings for Developing Economies” Conference is set for Apr 24-25, 2014, in Manila, Philippines. It is co-sponsored by the Air-Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute and endorsed by the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials.

Abstracts (400 or less words in length) are due July 12, 2013. If accepted, papers are due Oct. 18, 2013. Submittal information can be found at www.ashrae.org/Developing2014.

The conference addresses the challenges developing countries face in sustainable construction, such as rapidly growing energy demand, population density and urbanization, and focuses on aspects relating to design, construction, and operation of high performance buildings, including the HVACR industry’s role in meeting this objective.

The conference seeks to bring people from diverse cultures and climates together to share building design approaches that are responsive to local needs, said Ashish Rakheja, conference co-chair. A key motivation behind the conference is to use traditional construction practices.

“The papers and presentation will provide examples of how to apply the latest technology to achieve cost effective solutions to support high performance buildings in developing economies,” said Rakheja.

Papers are sought on the following themes: design criteria for developing countries, indoor air quality, energy efficiency, standards and government regulations, green building programs in developing countries, refrigeration, and water use. More details on the themes can be found here.