Design

Sustainable Architecture

Laura Lee

Jul 16, 2022

Sustainability has become a buzzword across industries, owing to climate change which is the biggest threat to humanity in the current century. Sustainable outlooks require pupils to make conscious decisions, while keeping the benefits to the environment in sight. The world commission on Environment and Development has set out that all sustainable development must meet the needs of the present without compromising on the ability of future generations to meet their needs. Sustainable architecture, like all other sustainable spheres, also keep this idea in hindsight.

Green building covered with vertical garden in the city

Getty Images / Moment / Artur Debat

Sustainable architecture’s principles are reflected in a building’s components, construction methods, raw materials used, and design in general. The design in particular considers all the ways that renewable energy can be utilized most. The most common way to do this is to have plenty of windows so that artificial lighting is not needed during the day. Instead, we can rely on natural light. Overall, the space is constructed to achieve resource efficiency.

Sustainable architecture is also commonly referred to as green architecture or environmental architecture. Under this architectural phenomenon, designers aim to create structures that have minimal harmful effects on the ecosystems, and the environment as a whole. It is extremely important to incorporate sustainable architecture in the overall struggle to tackle climate change. According to the UN Environment Global Status Report released in 2017, building and construction contribute to 35% of global energy use and 40% of energy-related CO2 emissions. Consequently, it is essential that there are reforms within the architectural sector. Building materials that are too damaging to the environment need to be replaced. Large spaces should not be used to build structures because that would mean clearing out more trees or areas that can be used to build parks or simply grow trees. Even small changes can make a huge overall impact, and it is important to start now!