Green buildings incorporate a range of environmental considerations into every stage of the building construction process. As Joe Cianciotto mentions, green buildings use a variety of sustainable design and construction strategies for reducing the harmful impact of buildings on the environment. These strategies are not only appealing to property investors, but also help ensure better health and cost efficiency for building occupants.
Joe Cianciotto highlights some of the key features of green buildings
Green buildings are the ones that reduce or eliminate the negative impacts on the environment in their design, construction, and operation. The approach towards green buildings, however, is not the same for developers and builders around the world. There are a number of factors that come into play when designing and constructing such structures. Culture, climate conditions, as well as the economic and environmental needs of the locality where a building is located, influence its features. However, there are a few common features that are shared by most green buildings, including:
- Energy efficiency: Efficient use of energy is a crucial aspect of green buildings. Certain materials and technologies are often used in the construction and operations of green buildings, which help reduce and optimize their energy consumption. Use of renewable energy, like solar energy, is common in green buildings. Using renewable energy lowers the reliance on fossil fuels. It also goes a long way in reducing the building’s energy bills as most of the power needs are met with in-house energy production.
- Minimizing the use of water and other resources: From the very beginning of construction through daily operations, green buildings aim to minimize the consumption of water and other essential natural resources, including fuel. They adopt sustainable practices and technologies that promote efficient usage rather than wastage. Measures like installing water meters to monitor consumption, using low-flow and sensor-based taps, and implementing rainwater harvesting systems help conserve water effectively. These initiatives not only reduce environmental impact but also lower long-term operational expenses.
- Pollution and waste reduction measures: Green buildings try to keep pollution and waste from the structure as low as possible. This is done by using low-waste products and processes, promoting re-use and recycling habits, and ensuring the right treatment of waste. Compost, zero waste design, and gray water recycling are often integrated into green buildings.
- Good indoor environmental quality: To maintain a pleasant and healthy atmosphere for the building inhabitants or occupants, green buildings prioritize proper air cleanliness and thermal control. These buildings ensure adequate ventilation and avoid the use of volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
As Joe Cianciotto mentions, a hallmark of green building is the seamless integration of sustainability practices throughout the lifecycle of the structure, which includes its design, construction, and operation. Sustainable design elements even include passive heating and cooling systems, as well as green spaces that promote biodiversity. Green buildings tend to adhere to stringent environmental standards that aim at reducing or even eliminating harmful emissions, waste, and pollutants. These structures are not just eco-friendly but also beneficial to the people who occupy them.
