Friday Focus: What it Takes for a Building to be Rated Green

Sustainable Site Development:

Choose a site with minimal ecological value to limit impacts on biodiversity

Implement a well-informed site layout that preserves existing mature trees

Create biodiversity corridors and linked viable open spaces

Develop an integrated pest management plan

Energy Efficiency:

Incorporate passive design elements for optimal ventilation and lighting

Install high-efficiency lighting systems

Use cool roofs to reduce heat absorption

Integrate renewable energy sources like solar panels

Water Conservation:

Implement rainwater harvesting systems

Install low-flow faucets, showerheads, and waterless urinals

Develop a comprehensive water management plan

Implement on-site stormwater management strategies

Waste Management:

Design for recycling and composting practices

Reduce construction waste through efficient planning

Implement best practice construction strategies to minimize waste

Indoor Environmental Quality:

Ensure sufficient fresh air provision through good ventilation design

Maximize natural daylighting

Use low-emission materials to reduce building-related pollutants

Design for universal access

Materials and Resources:

Use locally sourced, sustainable materials

Incorporate recycled or repurposed materials where possible

Implement green procurement policies

Innovation and Design Process:

Adopt a holistic design approach with clear vision and team involvement

Consider innovative solutions like green roofs or walls

Management and Governance:

Develop and implement good management practices during construction

Create a robust operations and maintenance plan for the building's lifecycle

Pollution Reduction:

Design the site layout to reduce noise pollution

Implement strategies to prevent light pollution

Adopt measures to reduce air pollution

Urban Agriculture:

Consider incorporating space for urban agriculture, such as rooftop gardens