These three principles can go a long way in creating buildings that last longer and use fewer resources to build.
- Less energy
To reduce the amount of energy used, you must first consider how much energy is being consumed. The next step is to reduce energy consumption and manage it appropriately.
These strategies include using renewable energy sources and natural light where possible; making sure appliances are efficient such as replacing old refrigerators with energy star models; installing motion sensors where appropriate (e.g., lights in a hallway), which turn on lights only when needed.
- Waste less water
Water efficiency is key in ensuring sustainability in building design since it is becoming an increasingly rare resource. According to the United Nations, more than 1.2 billion people worldwide live without access to safe drinking water, while 2.6 billion lack adequate sanitation facilities.
Moreover, the future availability of fresh water is predicted to become even more limited due to climate change and population growth. In this context, building owners and operators are increasingly aware of the need for water efficiency to preserve our resources and reduce our environmental impact.
- Reduce harmful chemicals
Sustainable materials can be reused, recycled, or composted after use. It doesn’t contain any toxic chemicals, are easily sourced, and extracted from the earth, and are renewable. These materials include clay bricks, concrete blocks and tiles, glass blocks, granite slabs, slate shingles, fibre cement siding panels, and cedar shakes.
There are also many other types of building materials that are considered sustainable, including recycled plastic lumber (RPL), bamboo flooring, bamboo plywood, and bamboo hardwoods like Ipe (ironwood).
Moreover, it is recommended to choose sustainable building materials that can be easily repaired, if necessary, and are less likely to need replacement in the future. Consider selecting materials with greater durability (such as concrete), which will last longer than standard frame lumber or plywood construction.
If possible, consider using recycled products or reclaimed materials in your designs— it requires less energy to produce and eliminate waste at every step of their lifecycle.
Sustainable buildings are not only good for the environment but also reduce operating costs. It uses less energy, water, and materials than conventional buildings, reduces potential health hazards for occupants and creates less pollution.
The movement of including sustainability in building design has grown tremendously and at Schneider Electric we want to ensure that each person who wants to build or remodel a home has access to affordable, green options that are good for the planet. We are a leading sustainability and digital transformation organisation, providing a wide range of products and solutions needed to create the building of the future.
Our panels of experts provide decarbonisation procedures, sustainable retrofit, and other facilities to create structures with sustainability in building design.
