How Architects Respond To Climate Emergency
Today’s architects are an essential part of the construction sector and their designs have substantial impact on the environment. A typical construction project requires substantial fossil energy and there has been mounting pressure from governments to implement more green practices. In terms of designing new buildings, architects need to have a different mindset to better nurture the environment.
Here are some ways architects are responding to climate change and other environmental emergencies:
Care For The Environment- because the construction sector is still mostly a “dirty” industry, it contributes to climate change and extreme weather. By going carbon-neutral, construction projects can significantly reduce the emission of greenhouse gases. Architects are designing carbon-neutral buildings that release no or very little carbon dioxide to the atmosphere over their lifetime.
Design Eco-Friendly Homes- architects are convincing more homeowners to use biodegradable materials in their construction projects. Among potential green materials are mycelium, which is obtained from fungus. With its interwoven fibres, mycelium is incredibly strong when dried and used as organic bricks. An eco-friendly home makes the most of sustainable energy. The design should take full advantage of natural light to reduce lighting costs. The interior must be easy to cool down during summer or to heat up during winter without excessive use of air conditioner or heater.
Adopt Sustainable Design- the construction industry dumps millions of tonnes of waste into landfills each year. Old buildings are constantly demolished, leaving piles of waste. By reusing material from old buildings, it is not necessary to manufacture new materials and this further reduces the carbon footprint of the project. Architects are reducing waste and the cost of the construction by choosing modular designs. Reversible design allows proper deconstruction of the building, so very little goes to waste. This creates a closed-loop system in the construction sector that’s far more sustainable than current practices.
Incorporate Green Energy Production- buildings should have integrated green power generation facilities. Solar panels can be placed strategically on roof or walls, depending on where the sun is during the day. The design may also allow the installation of two small wind turbines on the roof to help generate green energy, even at night.
Contact Ansell + Bailey
To learn more ways architects are responding to climate change and other environmental emergencies, contact Ansell + Bailey today!
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