Creating environmentally friendly structures with a focus on minimising negative impact on the environment is the goal of green building design. This concept has gained a lot of traction in recent years because of media attention on climate change and a growing concern about limited resources. By incorporating sustainable principles into building design and construction processes, we can help conserve natural resources and do our part for the planet. This is responsible building design in action.
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What is Green Building Design?
This is a relatively new approach to building design and construction that puts an emphasis on sustainability and environmental responsibility. This is currently a hot topic in architectural and construction planning due to increased worry about global warming. A building that utilises green design strategies will be made using the most appropriate materials and have the added benefit of being more energy efficient with better lighting, comfort and air quality.
How to Reduce Your Carbon Footprint at Home
Use Green Building Materials
As a result of the green movement, some non-traditional building materials are starting to see more use in construction. These materials have minimal environmental impact compared to those that have traditionally been used. Many of these materials come from recycled sources. Steel and concrete from older buildings and demolitions are being reused in new construction. Recycled crushed glass is finding use as an aggregate in concrete and for decoration. Even fast-growing bamboo is seeing use in flooring and furniture.
Lots of Natural Light
Lighting a house requires electricity, and while there has been a steady increase in green and renewable energy production, a lot of our electricity needs are fulfilled by non-green energy. As homeowners and home builders we can limit our dependence on the grid by harnessing the power of the sun for lighting with natural sunlight. Large wall and ceiling windows can do a much better job at lighting a room during the day than electrical lights. This is especially true with the strong Australian sun. Good quality shades enable the homeowner to fine tune how much light the let in or keep out of the home. Double paned windows go even further in green building design by also acting as thermal insulation.
Maximum Natural Ventilation and Air Circulation
This follows the same theme as natural light – it is possible to keep a home or building cool with natural ventilation. This may not be possible during the hottest months of summer, but when the temperatures become mild, good air circulation in a well-ventilated building can lower the temperatures enough to eliminate the need for air conditioning. There is also the added benefit of the clean smell and good spirits provided by fresh air. Ventilation in building design can be as simple as incorporating large opening windows in every room. A mechanical ventilation system consisting of extractor fans and air vents can also keep the air inside moving.
Responsible Water Use
Using water responsibly is not a new idea. But it is important to consider water use in building design by including sustainable water management practices to minimise any strain on our limited water resources. Low flow toilets, faucets and shower heads are some common ways to reduce water consumption. Greywater recycling systems go further by allowing for wastewater from sinks and showers to be reused. Even the use of drought-tolerant plants for landscaping can help. This is how to reduce your carbon footprint at home while reducing the water bill.
Proper Insulation
In green building design, the goal is to create a structure that is sustainable and environmentally friendly, and the right insulation supplies play a key role in achieving this by reducing energy use for cooling and heating. Prefinished cladding can also act as insulation by providing an additional layer of thermal material to a building’s surface, reducing heat loss in the winter and keeping the building cool in the summer. Insulation and cladding can help to reduce carbon emissions, lower energy consumption and create a comfortable indoor environment.
BetaBoard – Leading the Way
Creating eco-friendly buildings is the way of the future and BetaBoard is leading the way as a supplier of quality building materials and energy-efficient insulation. Our friendly staff would like to hear about your ideas for a green home and work with you on making your vision a reality. Contact us online to get started. You can also browse our section online or visit us at one of our excellent stores. We are your go-to construction supplier, so contact us today!
