5 Innovative Examples of Green Buildings

According to the 2019 Global Status Report, buildings and construction generate almost 40% of all CO2 emissions. However, despite this staggering figure, the number of green buildings being built is on the rise all over the world.

But what exactly are green buildings?

Green buildings are structures that are environmentally conscious across their design, construction, operation and maintenance. This might include using sustainable materials, renewable energy, reducing waste and preserving the surrounding environment.

Here we take a look at 5 innovative examples of Green Buildings that have taken the world of architecture, construction and energy by storm.

The Toronto Tree Tower - Precht

Designed by Chris Precht, The Toronto Tree Tower stands out as the only building made of wood and plants in its surroundings of steel and glass. As well as architecturally blending in with a natural environment, this building is made from natural timber cladding, and was constructed using a modular process, meaning that it was built faster, with less noise and producing less waste.

The Crystal

Claiming to be ‘one of the world’s most sustainable buildings’ is The Crystal in London. Created by technology powerhouse Siemens, The Crystal is completely electric, using solar power and heat pumps to sustainably create its own energy. Further, with the use of Siemens technology, the building produces 70% less carbon emissions than comparable offices in the UK, plus 100% of the toilet flushing uses recycled water.

Bullitt Center

Heralded as the greenest commercial building in the world is The Bullitt Center in Seattle. This building has multiple environmentally-conscious systems such as pedestrian and bicycle support, a rainwater collection system, and renewable energy from heat pumps and solar panels. Not only is this building net-zero carbon, it is also net-zero water and is made up of toxic-free materials.

Pixel - DeciBel

The Pixel building is Australia’s first ever carbon neutral office building and produces all of the energy and water is uses on site, making it completely sustainable. Alongside the wind turbines on the roof producing renewable energy is the rainwater system. This collects rain which is filtered to be used by the buildings toilets, basins and showers.

Shilda Winery, x-architecture

Located in Kahketi, Georgia, is the Shilda Winery. As well as blending into the environment with its curvy hill-like architecture, the winery also boasts energy efficiency as the thermal heat from the surrounding soil is used to moderate the buildings temperature. This has contributed to a reduction in electricity consumption by 50-60%.

ESA Space Solutions Opportunity

ESA Space Solutions ‘Green Buildings’ opportunity offers support and funding to businesses in this sector who could benefit from space data and technology.

Chosen businesses will then receive zero-equity funding of 60,000 to 2 million euros per activity, an ESA Space Solutions consultant, technical and commercial guidance, access to a network of partners and credibility from the ESA Space Solutions brand.

If your company contributes to the green building industry and could utilise space technology, apply here!

ACTIVITY:  Feasibility Study
OPENING:   17 February 2020
CLOSING:   13 April 2020