‘Green’ building design seems more like a buzzword or a catchphrase to advertise and sell projects, rather than something practical and achievable. How does one transform a regular building project from ordinary to sustainable and ‘green’ within budget, and with limited expertise?
But first, just what is a ‘green’ building? According to the World Green Building Council, a green building is one that in its design, construction or operation, minimizes or eliminates negative effects on the surrounding climate or natural environment and in turn promotes positive effects. Thus, these buildings improve human quality of life and protect precious natural resources in the environment.
Approaches to green building may be shaped, firstly, by available resources, climatic conditions, the cultures and traditions of the occupants, and other environmental, economic, and social priorities. This article will delve into the most pertinent features that can transform any building into a ‘green’ project.
Use of Renewable Energy
According to the United States EPA, buildings including commercial and residential account for about 65% of total electricity use and about 35% of total energy use. About 30% of all energy is wasted. This presents a good opportunity for energy and cost savings.
Solar energy and biofuel represent the easiest ways of improving energy stats and the ‘green’ conditions of buildings.
Efficient Use of Resources Such as Energy and Water
In more advanced economies, innovative technological solutions such as thermostats and smart apps help reduce the net energy consumption in homes and other establishments by reducing energy waste. Locally, ‘smart meters’ can integrate both solar power and metered Kenya Power connections to balance usage, thus improving energy efficiency.
Rain water harvesting and recycling are two ways of improving water use. There are many organizations in Kenya that offer products and services in this sector
Use of Sustainable Materials in Construction
While preferred, the use of ethical, non-toxic and sustainable materials sometimes proves difficult in the quest for green building. This is especially so in Kenya where concrete and steel are almost ubiquitous in building projects. While ecologically sustainable materials such as bamboo and wood may be impractical in some building projects, architectural and structural models can implement some elements of these, such as in partition walls.
Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) panels are one type of building material that should be considered when building. EPS minimizes the amount of steel and concrete, and also reduces construction time and costs.
Consideration of the Environment in Design, Construction and Operation Processes
Keeping the environment in consideration during the entire life cycle of a building especially at project conceptualization and design is important in improving the ‘green’ aspects of a building project. The project should not impact the environment adversely, for example, through being located on riparian land or other protected areas such as game reserves. Likewise, the waste disposal mechanisms should be consider any impact on the surrounding environment.
These methods can be integrated into any building projects such as schools, churches, community halls, apartment blocks, or even shopping or industrial complexes. Finally, all these methods should keep the quality of life of the building occupants as a key priority regardless of the method chosen.
