Green building, also known as sustainable building or green construction, refers to the application of resource-efficient and environmentally responsible processes in the entire life cycle of a building, including design, construction, maintenance, demolition or renovation. Green buildings are very important in today’s world, as the planet faces many challenges, such as resource depletion and climate change. Green buildings were a buzzword in the last decade, but things have begun to change lately, as several companies in the construction industry consider more and more green practices.
Green buildings have various advantages: they harmonize well with the environment, reduce waste, save costs, enhance human well-being, and minimize energy consumption.
Climate change is no longer perceived as a future threat but a reality we face today. As a society, everyone needs to have an active part in creating a more sustainable future. So, the construction industry also needs to comply with these facts, and luckily, there are many trends that can be adopted to help in this matter. Here are the best green building trends companies can consider.
Net Zero Energy Buildings
If you want to conserve fuel and help the environment, you need to use less energy. Net zero energy buildings help with this matter and even take things to the next level, as they also generate power. This means that the energy these buildings use is replaced with the one produced by them, and this reduces carbon footprint.
Net zero buildings produce as much energy as they use, which is achieved by a variety of means, including wind turbines, solar panels, and geothermal systems. When net zero buildings are constructed, architects take into account the entire life cycle of the buildings, including material sourcing or waste management. Net zero buildings are very popular currently, as they offer many environmental benefits, like improved financial performance, reduced environmental impact, social and community advantages, and enhanced occupant well-being.
Waste management
Waste management is also something important green buildings need to implement. A good management system will ensure that the waste has minimal environmental, economic and social impact. Effective waste management has strategies focused on recycling or reducing pollution. A good and simple example in which companies can reduce the karton (cardboard) and plastic waste is with the help of a baling press. Many materials in the construction site come wrapped in plastic or cardboard, so the construction industry needs to deal with them on a daily basis. As they occupy a lot of space, the baler will compress plastic and cardboard into bales that can be recycled later.
Sustainable materials
A popular trend of green buildings is using sustainable materials made from recycled or renewable resources. The purpose of sustainable materials is that they reduce the environmental impact and create a more environmentally friendly building. Also, sustainable materials require less maintenance and are more durable, saving time and money in the long run. Additionally, sustainable materials improve indoor air quality because they don’t contain harmful chemicals.
So, by using sustainable materials, builders can help to create a more eco-friendly environment.
Green roofs
Green roofs have also begun to be more and more considered in 2023. A green roof is one that is entirely or partially covered with vegetation and is a sustainable and innovative practice. Green roofs can be used on existing or new buildings, and they have a variety of sizes, shapes and colors.
Here are a few of the advantages of green roofs:
- Water and energy efficiency. With the help of green roofs, the need for cooling and irrigation systems can be diminished. This will lead to reduced energy consumption and lowered energy bills.
- Reduced greenhouse gas emissions. Green roofs can minimize the urban heat island effect, as they will cool down the air. This will lower carbon dioxide emissions and energy use.
- Extend the life of roofs. Green roofs are more durable, protecting surfaces from extreme temperatures, UV rays and physical damage. So, the life of roofs will extend.
- Provide habitat for birds, insects and other wildlife. Green roofs can improve local biodiversity, providing a safe space for birds and insects.
Water conservation
Water is one of the most valuable resources people need, so finding ways to conserve it better is very important. Because the human population increases fast, so does the need for water conservation. As everyone needs water, the lack of it will be a nightmare.
Green builders have begun to look for alternatives and construct buildings that focus on water conservation. Good examples of water conservation practices include energy-efficient toilets and taps that use sensors to diminish water consumption. Also, some buildings harvest rainwater for indoor use.
Low-emitting windows
Windows have plenty of benefits in a house, as they provide natural light and Vitamin D and improve the look of a home. But there are ways to use windows to reduce the environmental impact. For example, low-emitting windows have a thin coating that protects homeowners from freezing or overheating. The coating is made from metallic oxide that blocks some of the sun’s rays during summer, so the air conditioning will not need to be turned on. This coating will also keep heat in winter, so the gas bills will also be reduced.
Final words
Green buildings are created to minimize the impact on the environment. They bring a lot of advantages, as they reduce gas emissions, create a healthier environment and improve energy efficiency. Green buildings do not only make construction eco-friendly but also bring advantages to building occupants. Reduced operating costs, lower construction expenses, and healthier indoor living quality are some major benefits of green building.
As we face several challenges today, there is no time to waste, so each industry should adopt practices to reduce the environmental impact. The construction industry benefits from many trends that can be implemented to make more conscious and eco-friendly decisions.
