Sustainable Buildings Going Green

Green Building Building the Future with Intention Building to ensure that waste is minimized at every stage during construction and operation of the building resulting in low costs and low environmental impact.

Green Building: AKA: Green Construction or Sustainable Building Refers to a structure and using a process that is environmentally responsible and resource-efficient throughout a building’s life-cycle. From siting to design, construction, operation, maintenance, renovation, and demolition

Green Buildings are designed to: Reduce overall impact by – Efficient use of energy, water and other resources – Protecting occupant health and improving employee productivity – Reducing waste pollution and environmental degradation

Technology used in Green Buildings Constantly evolving technology to make: – Energy efficient – Water efficient – Materials efficient – Enhance indoor environmental quality – Operations and Maintenance Optimization – Waste and Toxics Reduction

Sources of Materials Renewable sources: Forests Reuse from waste: old plumbing, doors, windows, brick, flooring (wood), etc.

New Sustainable Products Sustainable Concrete – Crushed glass – Wood chips (slag) a byproduct of steel manufacturing – Reduces emission of CO2

Wool Brick Obtained by adding wool (a natural product)and a natural polymer found in seaweed to the clay of the brick 37% more strength than burnt bricks Resistant for cold and wet climate

Solar Tiles Exist to simply protect a building They spend a large portion o the day absorbing energy from the sun.

Solar Tiles, Solar Panels

Paper Insulation Made from recycled newspapers and cardboard Then filled with chemical foam Insect resistant and fire retardant

Triple-Glazed Windows Super efficient windows Stop heat entering the building and acts as a screen from direct sunlight.

Bamboo Renewable resource Can replace steel parts in construction Used to make flooring

Bamboo is Strong

Typical Layout of a Green Building

Pro’s of Green Building Efficient technology Easier maintenance Economical Return on investment Improved indoor air quality Energy efficient Water efficient, conservation Waste reduction Temperature control Healthier lifestyles, recreation—improved health

Con’s of Green Construction Initial cost is high Material availability Longer construction time Skilled workers needed

LEED LEED Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, contractor must be certified. This entails taking and passing courses. LEED buildings enjoy tax benefits from the government, save money by having energy efficiency

Energy Star Implemented in 1992 by US EPA Designed to promote and recognize energy efficiency in many technologies including kitchen appliances, cooling and heating appliances, and other technologies

Smart Home Technology Turn on your air condition 30 minutes prior to your arrival, Turn off lights from your smartphone or iPad Set alarms to tell you when you are approaching certain energy limits which will help you adjust habits to create the lowest possible energy use and expense. Turn on your air condition 30 minutes prior to your arrival, Turn off lights from your smartphone or iPad Set alarms to tell you when you are approaching certain energy limits which will help you adjust habits to create the lowest possible energy use and expense.

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