Thanks to global warming and increased environmental degradation, today’s construction industry is focused on being green. It is all about creating an environmentally safe, sustainable and valuable properties that are at par with the current environmental conservation standards. However, it is still unclear what green building is. Is being green focused on the construction process or the ultimate outcome? Contractors have different ideas on what is green building is; some are focused on using green materials while others are more concerned with energy efficiency. There are five key green building principles to consider when re-evaluating how design and construction techniques ultimately influence the impact of a building on its local environment. These key principles are; materials, location, renewable energy and the construction team you work with.
Analysis of the five principles of green building
1) Purpose to Optimally utilise Materials that will Result in a Greener Property
When taking a greener approach to developing property, the key question designers and contractors think about is “are the materials ethically sourced, recyclable and bio-based?” Important factors to consider include using locally available materials to minimise carbon emissions resulting from lengthy transportation.
2) Come up with a Location-centric Design
Make your design appropriate for a particular location. The location should not be altered to suit the design but rather the design should be specifically tailored to the location. For a greener result develop a design that accentuates the natural landscape without having a negative impact on the environment. This involves making calculated compromises that favor the environment. Such design compromises include building higher to reduce the footprint of a property and using cooling and heating techniques that are environmentally conscious. Come up with a design which takes advantage of a location’s natural provisions such as solar potential and wind.
3) Renewable Energy and Energy-efficiency are Essential in Developing Green Property
Today’s environmentally conscious construction industry favors green properties, such as eco-friendly homes and commercial properties powered by renewable energy. Therefore, it is advantageous to develop and install natural energy systems. Most natural energy systems are powered by solar energy which is now effective thanks to technological advancement that has made it possible for constructors to fully harness and utilise the power of the sun.
4) Develop a Design that Considers the Air Quality and Water Supply
Green building should not only be focused on energy efficiency and eco-friendly construction techniques but should also consider the ramifications of a construction project on the local inhabitants and the local environment. Green building projects ensure that the local environment benefits from a construction project through minimising soil disturbance and soil erosion and maintaining the natural water flow. A green building takes advantage of rainwater harvesting and filtration and reuse of greywater. At the same time, implementation of adequate ventilation systems capable of handling the natural changes in air pressure and temperature is desirable.
5) Select a Construction Team Knowledgeable and Experienced in Green Building
Surrounding yourself with green-minded individuals who are in the same page about the eventual outcome of a construction project is indispensable. Such a team ensures that you develop a workable green design created by a team of knowledgeable experts.