Wanhao Zhang
Research
Wanhao Zhang's PhD research at UCL, Cooling Conflicts: Intergenerational Negotiations of Air Conditioning Use in Chinese Families, explores how cultural values, material conditions, and social interactions shape household energy practices in urban China. Using Shenzhen as a case study, the research applies Social Practice Theory (SPT) and qualitative methods, including semi-structured interviews and participant observations, to examine how different generations within families negotiate air conditioning (AC) use.
Findings highlight that Confucian values, particularly filial piety, hierarchical respect, and family duty, deeply influence intergenerational discussions on cooling practices. Older generations, shaped by experiences of economic scarcity, tend to prioritize sufficiency and frugality, while younger generations, accustomed to urban lifestyles, emphasize comfort, efficiency, and productivity. These tensions lead to hybridized practices, where traditional values are adapted to modern energy needs.
By integrating cultural and relational dimensions into SPT, this study advances understanding of how energy practices evolve within rapidly urbanizing societies. The research provides insights for energy policy and sustainability initiatives, emphasizing the importance of culturally resonant interventions in shaping household energy consumption. While grounded in the Chinese context, its implications extend to other regions experiencing similar socio-cultural and technological transitions.