Green

Architecture
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GROUP 7
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 Green architecture is a philosophy that advocates for building with the environment
in mind by using sustainable sources of energy, designing efficiently to reduce
energy use, and updating existing buildings with new technology.

 The oil price increase of the 1970’s spurred significant research and activity to
improve energy efficiency and find renewable energy resources. This movement in

Introduction to the 1970’s was called the energy crisis and environmental movement. Other
movements also influenced the movement of green architecture, this include;

GREEN a) Arts and craft movement in the 19th century

Architecture b) Modernism and Bauhaus movement in the 20th century

 From the 1980’s to the 1990’s organizations like the US Green Building Council
(USGBC) developed standards like LEED (Leadership in Energy and
Environmental Design) to promote sustainable building practices.

 Today in the 21st century, Green buildings have gained mainstream acceptance with
government and corporations adopting sustainable building practices.
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IMPORTANCE of  Better air quality:

GREEN Architecture
Since green buildings utilize eco-friendly materials, you can
expect better indoor air quality. Using plants to design the
interior can also help maintain air circulation. And with the
improved air quality, the risk of pulmonary diseases is also
reduced.
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 Low water wastage:

IMPORTANCE The green building concept puts great important on water

efficiency. A water-efficient plumbing system is
of incorporated to improve water conversation and lower
GREEN water wastage. Moreover, a specially-engineered water
Architecture purifier and storage systems enables water recycling.
This is an important step towards saving vital natural
resources.
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IMPORTANCE of
GREEN Architecture

 Saves Money:

Green buildings helps keep cost down by using less energy and
water than traditional construction methods. By choosing
materials that don’t need to be heated or cooled as much, you
can reduce your utility bills substantially. In addition, you will
also save money on maintenance costs since these materials are
designed to last longer than traditional materials and require less
upkeep overtime.
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Key principles of green
Architecture

 Sustainable site planning:

Green architecture begins with thoughtful
site selection and planning. This involves
minimizing disruption to the natural
environment, preserving existing
ecosystems and choosing locations that
reduce the need for extensive
transportation infrastructure.
 Energy efficiency :
Efficient energy use is a major part of
green architecture. It includes passive
design strategies like proper building
orientation for optimal sunlight, insulation
to reduce heating and cooling needs and
the integration of renewable energy sources
such as solar panels and wind turbines.
 z  Water conversation :

Key Green architecture prioritizes water efficiency by

incorporating technologies like low-flow fixtures,
principles rainwater harvesting system and greywater recycling.

of This reduces the strain on local water resources and

promotes sustainable water management.
green • Lifecycle Assessment :
Architecture Assessing the environmental impact of a building
throughout its entire lifecycle is crucial. This
includes not only construction but also operation,
maintenance and eventual deconstruction. Green
architects aim to minimize the overall environmental
footprint overtime.
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Key principles of green
Architecture
 Other principles of green architecture include;

1) Innovation and technological integration

2) Community engagement and social

responsibility

3) Biodiversity and landscape integration

4) Waste reduction and recycling

5) Indoor environmental quality

6) Sustainable materials e.t.c

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ENERGY
EFFICIENCY
Green architecture focuses on minimizing energy
consumption and maximizing the use of renewable
energy sources in buildings. Key principles include
passive design, insulation, energy-efficient lighting,
renewable energy sources and high performance
windows. Sustainable materials are chosen based on
their environmental impact, resources efficiency
and contribution to building’s overall sustainability.
Key categories include recycled materials, bamboo,
FSC certified wood, cork and rammed earth
construction.
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ENERGY
EFFICIENCY
Water conversion in green architecture involves
implementing design strategies, technologies and
practices to minimize water consumption,
promote efficient water use and reduce the
environmental impact of buildings on water
resources. Key approaches include rainwater
harvesting, grey water systems, low-flow fixtures,
drought-tolerant landscaping and permeable
surfaces.
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ENERGY
EFFICIENCY

Green architecture aims to create structures that not only

minimize their environmental footprint but also provide healthy
and comfortable spaces for occupants. By considering the entire
life cycle of materials, the environmental impact is minimized
across all stages of a building’s life.
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SUSTAINABLE
MATERIALS
Water conservation means using our limited water
supply efficiently and wisely. All of us depend on
water to sustain life, therefore it is our responsibility
to learn about and implement water conservation.

 Measures to conserve water

 Installing flow-restricting shower heads to save
water during showers.
Taking bucket-baths instead of showers.
 Turning off the tap while shaving or brushing
teeth.
 Immediately fixing any leaking taps and pipes in
our homes.
 Practising rainwater harvesting to reduce the
wastage of rainwater.
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SUSTAINABLE
MATERIALS
 WATER EFFICIENT PLUMBING FIXTURES
Water-efficient fixtures and fittings are an essential components of sustainable water
management, and they can help individuals and communities conserve water resources.
Water-efficient fixtures and fittings can help address water scarcity by reducing water
consumption.

The Use of Water-Efficient Fixtures and Fittings:

 Water-efficient fixtures and fittings are designed to reduce water consumption while
maintaining or even improving performance.
 Some common examples of water-efficient fixtures and fittings include faucet aerators,
low-flow toilets, High-Efficiency Toilets (HET), Performance Shower Heads, pressure
reducing valves, Water-Saving Faucets etc
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SUSTAINABLE
MATERIALS
 GREYWATER RECYCLING
Greywater recycling, then, refers to the treatment of wastewater from appliances such
as showers, baths and sinks, to be re-used and fed back into a property for non-potable
purposes such as flushing toilets.

WORKINGS OF A GREY WATER SYSTEM

Greywater treatment systems are classified into three types:

 physical
 chemical
 biological
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SUSTAINABLE
MATERIALS
 Treatment of greywater may include:

Pre-filtration
Sedimentation
Flotation
Post-filtration or UV disinfection

 The promising ecological advantages of greywater include:

Freshwater savings due to less needed extractions from rivers and aquifers
 Lower amounts of energy used and less chemical pollution from water treatment
Deep drainage and recapture of nutrients
Reduced environmental impact from water treatment plants and septic tanks
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WATER
CONSERVATION

By placing an emphasis on using

recycled and reclaimed materials, we
can significantly reduce waste and
give new life to materials that would
otherwise end up in landfills. It's a
win-win situation for both the
environment and our conscience.
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WATER
CONSERVATION

 Moreover, opting for local sourcing is a brilliant choice.

By obtaining materials from nearby sources, we can
minimize the carbon footprint associated with
transportation. Not only does this reduce greenhouse gas
emissions, but it also supports the local economy and
promotes community resilience.
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WATER
CONSERVATION

 Overall, your focus on sustainable materials, recycling, and

local sourcing in greenhouse architecture showcases a deep
commitment to environmental stewardship. It's inspiring to
see individuals like you actively making a positive impact
on our planet. Keep up the great work, and let's continue to
build a greener and more sustainable future together
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CASE
STUDIES
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Arch: Benjamin Romano’s Torre Reforma
Location: Mexico city
 With a height of 246 meters, the Torre
Reforma is currently the fourth-tallest
structure in Mexico and commands a
commanding view over one of the
megalopolis's main thoroughfares. Only
projects with exceptionally effective resource
management are granted the LEED platinum
certification, which was granted to this tower
in 2016 atop a colonial-era building.

 Notable accomplishments of this project include:

100% of wastewater is processed to tertiary
levels and utilized within the building; 94% of
the areas have natural illumination; and the
concrete walls that serve as the building's
foundations limit heat entry, saving up to 20%
on energy usage. In addition, the building is
close to additional amenities and metro lines by
foot.
Fig: Benjamin Romano Torre Reforma
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Building: International House by Tzannes,
Location: Sydney Australia.

 The largest commercial office building in the world,

International House is seven floors tall and uses mass-
engineered timber as its main structural component.
Approximately 3,500 cubic meters of repurposed and
sustainably farmed wood were used in the
construction. By not utilizing concrete, thousands of
kilos of greenhouse gases were prevented. Softwood is
used for interior design and hardwood for external
structural purposes. via the use of recycled hardwood
and structurally engineered mass timber, the design
makes the most of their limits to produce a visually
striking and comprehensible load path via the column
and beam construction. Prefabrication of the structure
allowed for additional quality control through off-site
factory manufacturing and a significant reduction in Fig: International House by Tzannes
construction time.
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CHALLENGES
and
SOLUTION

Challenges
 Cost
One of the main challenges of sustainable architecture is the cost. Building sustainably often requires the use of
more expensive materials and technologies, such as solar panels, energy-efficient windows, and rainwater
harvesting systems. These added costs can make sustainable buildings more expensive to construct and operate,
which can be a barrier for many developers and homeowners. Furthermore, the benefits of sustainable architecture
may not always be immediately apparent. For example, the energy savings from a solar panel system may not be
realized for many years, making it difficult for developers to justify the upfront cost.
 Lack of Standardization and Certification
There is currently no standard definition of what constitutes a sustainable building, and there is a lack of
consensus on the best practices and technologies to use. This can make it difficult for architects and builders to
design and construct sustainable buildings, as there are no clear guidelines to follow. In addition, there is a
proliferation of different certification systems for sustainable buildings, each with their own standards and criteria.
This can be confusing for developers and consumers, who may not know which system to trust or how to compare
different buildings.
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CHALLENGES
and
SOLUTION
Solutions

Green architecture faces various challenges that require innovative solutions. Here are
some common challenges and potential solutions:
 Cost Constraints solution: Advocate for long-term cost savings. While green
technologies and materials may have higher upfront costs, emphasizing the long-
term economic benefits, such as reduced energy bills and maintenance costs, can
help overcome initial resistance.
 Limited Public Awareness solution: Increase public education and awareness
about the benefits of green architecture. Public outreach programs, community
workshops, and informative campaigns can help people understand the
environmental and health advantages of sustainable design.
Addressing these challenges requires a collaborative effort from professionals,
policymakers, industry stakeholders, and the public to create a supportive environment
for the widespread adoption of green architecture principles and practices.
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ECONOMIC
BENEFITS
of
green
Architecture
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 Less energy usage and low operational cost

 One of the fundamentals that sustainable design architects

apply is to lower energy consumption. By making use of
daylight and creating a design that offers maximum cooling
with air ventilation can significantly add up to saving
energy costs. It has been noted that the installation of green
technology in a building can save up to 25% to 50% of the
energy. Less energy usage means a low operational cost for
running a residential or commercial building. Saving on
operational costs can allow installing more such methods
leading to further energy and cost-saving.
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 Higher Values for Builders

 Green buildings are slowly turning into a trend, and

working or living in these buildings is becoming a vogue.
The reason behind it is that it gives people a sense of
responsibility, an opportunity to contribute to the fight
against deteriorating environment and have a sustainable
future. Since the cost of building eco-friendly
establishments is upfront high and the trend & demand is
slowly increasing, these buildings are rented and sold at a
premium, giving more returns for sustainable design
architects.
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 More Job Opportunities

 Constructing a sustainable building and making designs

requires special talent. Sustainable design architects
undergo specialized training and study various ways in
which green buildings can be constructed. This creates job
opportunities for specialized staff. Not only this, but the
need for innovative sustainable technology creates new
opportunities for manufacturers resulting in a demand for
more skilled, semi-skilled and non-skilled labour.
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SOCIAL
IMPACT of green
Architecture on the society

Green architecture has a social impact on communities

and societies. This approach to design and construct
focuses on minimizing the environmental impact of
buildings while creating healthier and more energy-
efficient spaces. The social impact can be thus observed
in the following ways;

 Indoor air quality:

Green buildings often prioritize good indoor air quality

by using non-toxic materials and efficient ventilation
systems. This can lead to improved respiratory health and
overall well being of occupants.
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SOCIAL
IMPACT of green
Architecture on the society

 Natural light and ventilation:

Green designs emphasize the use of natural

light and ventilation thus creating more
comfortable spaces and contributing to
mental health.

 Thermal comfort:

Sustainable buildings are designed to

optimize thermal comfort through proper
insulation, ventilation and energy efficient
heating and cooling systems. Maintaining
comfortable indoor temperatures contributes
to physical well being and prevents health
issues related to extreme temperatures.
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SOCIAL
IMPACT of green
Architecture on the society

 Promotion of physical activity:

Sustainable urban planning encourages workability and the use of

alternative transportation modes, promoting physical activity and reducing
sedentary lifestyles. This can have positive effects on cardiovascular health.

 Public spaces:

Sustainable architecture often incorporates green spaces and community

gardens, providing areas for social interaction and relaxation.
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SOCIAL
IMPACT of green
Architecture on the
society

 Educational
Opportunities:

Green architecture projects

often begin with education
and outreach initiatives.
Seminars and educational
campaigns can be conducted
to inform community
members about the principles
of sustainable design, energy
efficiency and environmental
benefits of green buildings.
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FUTURE TRENDS &

TECHNOLOGICAL
ADVANCEMENT
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FUTURE TRENDS & TECHNOLOGICAL
ADVANCEMENT
 Green architecture is evolving with technological
advancements, focusing on sustainable and environmentally
friendly practices. Future trends include smart buildings,
energy harvesting, biophilic design, advanced materials, 3D
printing, circular economy practices, augmented reality and
virtual reality, water purification and recycling, blockchain for
sustainability certification, and robotic construction.
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FUTURE TRENDS & TECHNOLOGICAL
ADVANCEMENT

 Smart buildings use integrated systems and IoT sensors to optimize

energy use, lighting, and climate control. Energy harvesting
technologies like solar windows and kinetic energy harvesting can
supplement energy needs. Biophilic design incorporates green walls,
living facades, and indoor plants to improve air quality, thermal
regulation, and biodiversity. 3D printing technology enables
sustainable construction with minimal waste and on-site printing,
while circular economy practices promote demountable and reusable
structures.
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FUTURE TRENDS &
TECHNOLOGICAL
ADVANCEMENT

 Artificial and virtual reality (AR) and

virtual reality (VR) technologies
enhance design visualization and
efficiency, while water purification and
recycling technologies reduce water
consumption. Blockchain technology
ensures transparency and reliability of
sustainability certifications. Robotic
construction can enhance efficiency
and precision in construction, reducing
labor costs and material waste.
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CONCLUSION

 In summary green architecture is a sustainable approach to building

design and construction, focusing on environmental sustainability,
resource efficiency, and occupant well-being. It offers economic benefits
like cost savings and increased property value. Technological
advancements, such as smart buildings, energy harvesting, and
innovative materials, are shaping the future of green architecture. Water
conservation is a critical aspect, involving efficient fixtures and
greywater reuse. Green architecture is a dynamic movement that
challenges holistic thinking and aims for harmony between human needs
and environmental preservation.
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Thank you
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QUESTIONS?