Will green architecture really impact construction
View PDF | Print View
by: cavinleejacobs
Total views: 66
| What is Green Architecture? It is the concept of designing buildings with a view of reducing negative impact of construction on environment and the people. Green architecture includes conservation and efficient use of natural resources as also the use of indigenous and recycled material to optimizing the finances. It is literally an approach to get Much More with Much Less. The question that begs answering is: how do those old fashioned thatched roof houses remain cool in the summer? The answer lies in the advantageous use of local produce and the environment by the indigenous people in building those houses. Contemporary Green Architecture aims to identify those indigenous practices and use them to build modern homes. Green Architecture makes favorable use of natural sunlight and wind flow patterns. The structural designs aim to incorporate appliances and electrical devices, which are energy efficient such as fluorescent lights and solar heaters. Structural designs incorporate concepts such as on site energy generation of wind, biomass and water. A self-sustaining ecosystem, is the model, which a holistic Green Architectural design aims to replicate. For example, wastewater can be recycled to water the garden and organic waste generated by the occupants can be converted into manure in compost pits, which can be used for the garden. Green Architecture aims to reduce the use of synthetic materials. Toxic fumes generated by aging synthetic paints are a health hazard. Some synthetic building insulation material contains formaldehyde, a known carcinogen, which has affected the health of countless citizens. Green Architecture aims at reducing the use of all such material so that people can live in healthier environment. All this requires concerted effort and planned initiatives at national or international levels. A US effort in setting standards for design and construction practices which have least negative impact on environment and people is exemplified by the Leadership in Energy and Environment Design (LEED). As per the LEED standard factors such as sustainable sites, water efficiency, energy and atmosphere, material and resources and indoor environmental quality are given different weighted points. Based on the weights, certification points are calculated which are graded as Certified, Silver, Gold and Platinum. Platinum is the most environment friendly and healthy LEED certification. The US LEED standards are being used by Canada, India and Israel for some of their Green Architecture projects. Other countries use their own standards for Green Architecture. Some of the countries adopting own standards for Green Architecture are Australia, France, Germany, Japan , Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand and UK. Intensive effort is required by the building industry to address the serious environmental conditions facing the world. Such an effort can be initiated through Green Architecture as the standard approach for all construction. |
Rating: Not yet rated
Login to vote