Sustainable construction, also known as green building can best be described as the implementation of environmentally conscious, resource-friendly systems and processes throughout the life cycle of a building. In other words, from design to demolition, every aspect of the building is created to be as environmentally friendly as possible.
Green construction has gained momentum in recent years and isn't slowing down anytime soon. For those looking to build green, these are easy and simple practices that can be implemented. Here are just a few ways you can try green building for your next project.
Green engineering shows promise in improving energy efficiency and generating renewable energy in the near future. See where green engineering is expected to be next year.
1. Sustainable Building Materials
On any construction site, resource consumption is considerable. By integrating recycled and/or biodegradable materials, we can see a major impact on reducing waste and air pollution. On your next green building project, make these simple swaps to make a big difference.
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Natural paint
- Does not contain volatile organic compounds (VOC). Natural paint not only decomposes without contaminating the earth, but also helps eliminate indoor air pollution.
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Steel beams made from recycled metal
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In place of wooden beams, these recycled steel beams could be placed inside the green building . It could help prevent further depletion of a valuable natural resource: wood. These steel beams also offer greater resilience to severe weather conditions.
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2. Zero energy buildings
It can be considered almost impossible to build a building that uses almost no energy. However, this is not the case. Zero energy buildings are designed and engineered to operate independently of the electrical grid, using only renewable resources, for example sun and wind. How to use renewable resources when building a green building ?
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Solar panels
- The sun is a renewable resource, and solar energy systems work to transform the sun's rays into usable energy . Photovoltaic (PV) cells are found in solar panels and convert sunlight into direct current (DC). In addition to the panels, there is the inverter, which converts direct current into alternating current (AC) electricity. AC is then sent from the inverter to the electrical panel, providing energy to power your building.
3. Low-emissivity (Low-E) coatings and smart windows
Approximately 30% of heating and air conditioning is lost through windows. Although low-e coatings and smart windows are still relatively new, they are quickly becoming a well-known feature. resource for green construction .
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Low emissivity coatings
- Emissivity can best be defined as the ability of a material to radiate energy. The coating acts as a reflector for long-wave infrared (heat) energy. During the winter months heat will try to escape through the windows; The coating helps reflect heat energy back inward, reducing the energy needed to keep the thermostat set.
- The Low-E coating also works in the summer months, which can lead to a decrease in the energy needed to keep a thermostat cooler. The coating works like a thermos, for your home or building.
Key Insights on Green Building
- Green construction is an efficient and environmentally friendly way to construct and maintain any building.
- Choosing to build with sustainable building materials significantly reduces your building's carbon footprint.
- Use almost no energy to power your building, using renewable resources such as solar panels.
- Reduce energy consumption by using low-e coatings on windows to keep heat and air conditioning inside the home.
What kind of ideas have you implemented in your green building process? Comment below to let us know, and be sure to download our eBook, “Top 10 Inventive Green Engineering Trends for 2017,” to learn more about emerging green building trends!
