Design and Development for Sustainability: May 2008 Archives
Can you tell a building is "green" or "sustainable" just by looking at it?
Usually not!
Green is a method of building that uses subtle techniques such as sourcing local materials, using non-toxic materials, including space for water conserving landscaping, and using solar heat, natural light, and natural ventilation effectively.
Those strategies don't look very different. Buildings have used bits and pieces of these smart building design and construction techniques for many centuries. Today's "green" building not only uses these techniques on the outside of the building skins, but internally. Energy efficient equipment reduces energy use. Low water flow plumbing reduces water consumption. Low energy lighting reduces energy use. Non toxic and recycled materials are selected for paints and carpets. Modular construction such as carpet tiles vs. wall to wall carpets reduce the need to fill landfills with old materials when they wear only in traffic patterns.
Most green buildings can't be identified from the street! So you might like to search online for green buildings in your community and identify some of them. They make great outings for visiting family and friends! Taking a tour will give you wonderful insights into local materials, technology innovations, and just smart living!
Usually not!
Green is a method of building that uses subtle techniques such as sourcing local materials, using non-toxic materials, including space for water conserving landscaping, and using solar heat, natural light, and natural ventilation effectively.
Those strategies don't look very different. Buildings have used bits and pieces of these smart building design and construction techniques for many centuries. Today's "green" building not only uses these techniques on the outside of the building skins, but internally. Energy efficient equipment reduces energy use. Low water flow plumbing reduces water consumption. Low energy lighting reduces energy use. Non toxic and recycled materials are selected for paints and carpets. Modular construction such as carpet tiles vs. wall to wall carpets reduce the need to fill landfills with old materials when they wear only in traffic patterns.
Most green buildings can't be identified from the street! So you might like to search online for green buildings in your community and identify some of them. They make great outings for visiting family and friends! Taking a tour will give you wonderful insights into local materials, technology innovations, and just smart living!
