Green Buildings

Green buildings need to be a part of our future.  Why?  Buildings are responsible for almost half of the energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions in the U.S., as well as 75% of our electrical use.  The challenge is to turn the problem, buildings, into the solution.  Green buildings can do just that, if enough thought goes into each new project.  Here we will look at some ways new buildings can be part of the solution to our energy crises.

Energy conservation starts with making use of available, natural light.  Add to that some mechanical energy saving features and power consumption is already lowered.  The remaining power needs can easily be achieved with a combination of photovoltaic arrays and wind turbines.  All outdoor lighting can easily be individually solar powered reducing the overall power needs of the building.  All new construction of buildings should have a goal of "net-zero".  Net zero carbon means a building will either be producing enough non-carbon energy on-site to offset any carbon-based energy it might use or purchasing non-carbon produced energy, such as energy from wind or solar.

Green Buildings have other considerations beyond just power generation and consumption.  Water is an important aspect in designing and planning new construction.  Practically all the water that falls on your property can be either made available for immediate use or harvested for future use.  Rooftop water can be harvested and used for practically all of your landscaping needs.  Parking lots can be made with permeable/porous pavement to allow rain water to soak back into the earth.  Consider also the use of channels and underground piping for passive irrigation.  Water conservation is not just for the outside of a building, choosing low-flow plumbing fixtures can save close to fifty percent in water consumption.

Considering the air you breath is also a consideration in green buildings.  Making use of filtration systems and natural air flow through windows should be part of an overall design plan.  Systems are available to advise on the best times to open and close windows, as well as adjust air flow depending on the number of occupants of a room.  Air quality is also effected by the building materials used in the original project.  Choose low-emitting and non toxic adhesives, paints, carpets, tiles and composite woods.  Green cleaning supplies will continue to keep you air supply clean and non-toxic.

Recycling is a two way road when it comes to green buildings.  It is possible to divert up to 75% of your construction waist from the landfills.  Sure, this would take some effort, but it is possible and a consideration that does need to be kept in mind.  Using recycled building materials is also an important consideration.  The availability of these types of building materials grows daily.  Before you buy anything, check to see if it is offered from recycled material.  The list of recycled building materials to choose from will probably amaze you.  As you are planning and building, keep in mind also, the importance of recycling in your waist management plans.

Lastly, consider the use of your land and avoid the urban heat-island effect.  Fitting the building into the surroundings is preferred to altering the surroundings to accommodate the building.  Roof top gardens and partially in ground building are a couple ways to consider, and incorporate, the surrounding landscape.

Generating on-site renewable energy is critical for all new building construction, but mandatory to be considered a green building.  Builders should also be concerned with building shape and orientation, glazing location and properties, cooling and natural ventilation strategies, passive solar heating, day lighting, shading and site landscaping.  These are just a few of the many aspects that go into the planning of a green building.  Spend the proper amount of time in the planning stages, before the ground is cleared and construction begins.