Guidelines for Developing Sustainable Architecture Models
superadmin
February 2, 2020
Sustainable architecture plays a leading role in the transition towards a green economy and green cities. In fact, almost 80% of the European population already lives in urban environments. To transform this reality and meet the commitments of the Paris Agreement, it is essential to develop new models of sustainable architecture.
Sustainable architecture values the environmental impact of all processes of a project. From the extraction of raw materials, through construction techniques, the location of the building in the urban and natural environment, its energy efficiency, and concluding with recycling and demolition.
What guidelines does sustainable architecture follow?
It is based on five main points, from which a series of indicators are derived to determine whether a building is sustainable or not:u25cf Optimization of materials and resources with planning that places sustainability at the center. u25cf Commitment to energy efficiency and the use of renewable energies. u25cf Reduction of waste and emissions with good management and savings. u25cf Reduction of maintenance needs. u25cf Well-being for users with good air quality and thermal and acoustic comfort.
What are the sustainable architecture models for 2020?
According to the Energy Efficiency Directive in Buildings (EPBD), all homes built in the EU from 2020 must be of almost zero energy consumption. In addition, the energy they use must come from renewable sources located in the building itself or in its surroundings.Not surprisingly, buildings are responsible for almost half of the energy consumed in the world, as well as for 40% of greenhouse gas emissions. Through sustainable architecture, energy expenditure can be reduced, in addition to the environmental impact of buildings.
Thus, measures will continue to be implemented to increasingly integrate sustainability into architecture, following the guidelines of certifications such as Breeam, LEED, and similar ones.
The Future Models of Sustainable Architecture
The commitment to renewable energies will move forward, as they are not only clean, but also a significant source of employment.On the other hand, the use of drones equipped with photo and video cameras may grow. They allow access to difficult locations, as well as monitor project progress and generally gather useful information.
The adaptation of buildings to climate change is becoming important with a design and construction resistant to extreme weather phenomena.
In addition, the carbon footprint of traditional construction materials is pointing towards a gradual substitution with other sustainable alternatives that also prove to be very resistant and durable. From the more natural materials like bamboo to those that are recycled, such as plastic, the central idea is to reduce the extraction of raw materials for building materials.
Likewise, the investment in smart buildings capable of automating the optimization of their energy performance through distributed energy systems will continue.
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