Real Estate and construction accounts for a large percentage of global energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. As per Joe Cianciotto, demolition and construction generate a large amount of waste, consume a lot of natural resources and causes pollution. With time, the awareness about the need to reduce environmental footprint is spreading across the world. Hence, the building industry is gradually taking steps to follow more eco-friendly practices, and utilize green building techniques and materials.
Joe Cianciotto briefly discusses green buildings and eco-friendly construction
Green building, at times also referred to as sustainable building, implies to the practice of designing, constructing and operating buildings in a manner that is environmentally responsible. This would include the use of methods and materials that help in lowering the environmental impact of the building, while making sure that the building is healthy and energy efficient for its occupants.
The use of sustainable materials is among the most vital aspects of green buildings. This includes utilizing materials that are made from varied renewable resources like cork or bamboo, or other materials that can be recycled with ease, like reclaimed wood. A large number of green building projects today use low-toxicity and non-toxic materials like natural paints and sealants that help in lowering indoor air pollution.
Energy efficiency is an extremely important aspect of green buildings. They are generally built with materials that use much less energy to create and utilize, including insulated glass and walls made from concrete. This also includes the use of discerning energy-efficient appliances, HVAC systems, lighting, as well as incorporating renewable energy sources like solar power into the design of the building. Doing so helps reduce the overall carbon footprint of the building, and would also help people to save money on energy expenses over the long run.
In the opinion of Joe Cianciotto, green buildings focus on creating healthy indoor environments. This would include incorporating green spaces, fresh air and natural light into the design of the building, in addition to using non-toxic materials that do not off-gas harmful chemicals. Doing so can lower the risk of aggravating allergies and asthma, while improving the overall well-being and health of the occupants of the building. Making use of discerning sustainable site development practices is also a crucial aspect of green building. This includes protecting water resources, preserving natural habitats and ecosystems, as well as lowering the heat island effect by utilizing reflective roofing and paving materials.
Today the use of green roofs and walls have become pretty common. It is among the most innovative aspects of green buildings. Green roofs and walls basically imply to green spaces that are integrated into the design of a building. Green roofs and walls can go a long way in lowering the heat island effect and improve air quality.
While many think that green buildings are costlier than traditional building, but very often this is not true. Rather, several green building techniques and materials enable people to save money in the long run through reduced maintenance costs, better energy savings, and improved health and productivity of the building’s occupants.
