Green Buildings [January Thematic Report]by David Kalayi | 01-03-2024 09:49 |
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Green buildings, also known as sustainable buildings or eco-friendly buildings, are structures designed and constructed with a focus on environmental responsibility and resource efficiency throughout their entire life cycle. Green buildings are structures that are designed and built with a focus on sustainability. These buildings often use recycled materials, energy-efficient technologies, and other environmentally-friendly features. Some common green building features include solar panels, rainwater collection systems, natural lighting and ventilation, and eco-friendly insulation. Green buildings not only help to reduce the environmental impact of construction, but they can also save money on energy costs and provide a healthier environment for occupants. Many countries are now promoting the construction of green buildings through incentives and regulations. Let¡¯s explore what makes a building ¡°green¡±: Holistic Approach: Green buildings consider the entire life cycle, from planning and design to construction, operation, maintenance, renovation, and even demolition. This approach involves close collaboration among contractors, architects, engineers, and clients at all project stages1. Key Principles: Resource Efficiency: Green buildings aim to minimize negative impacts and maximize positive effects on the natural environment and human occupants. Energy Saving: Implementing energy-efficient technologies and practices reduces consumption and lowers greenhouse gas emissions. Water Saving: Efficient water use through technologies like low-flow fixtures and rainwater harvesting. Material Efficiency: Choosing sustainable materials and minimizing waste during construction. Indoor Environmental Quality: Prioritizing occupant health and comfort by improving air quality, lighting, and acoustics. Certification Systems: LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design): A widely recognized rating system developed by the U.S. Green Building Council. BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method): Used in the UK for assessing sustainability. DGNB System (Deutsche Gesellschaft für Nachhaltiges Bauen e.V.): Benchmarks sustainability performance in Germany. EDGE (Excellence in Design for Greater Efficiencies): Promoted by the World Bank for emerging markets. Adaptability: Green buildings are designed for flexibility. They can serve multiple purposes over their lifetime, adapting to changing needs. For example, an office building could transform into apartments or a shopping center. Sources; en.Wikipedia.org greenbuildingcanada.ca
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