Taperman articles

What is Green Architecture? It is the concept of designing buildings with a view of reducing negative impact of construction on environment and the people. Green architecture includes conservation and efficient use of natural resources as also the use of indigenous and recycled material to optimizing the finances. Very simply put, it is the optimum way to get a ‘ Better Bang for the Buck. The question that begs answering is: how do those old fashioned thatched roof houses remain cool in the summer? The answer lies in the advantageous use of local produce and the environment by the indigenous people in building those houses. Modern Green Architecture aims at identifying such indigenous practices and incorporating them into contemporary architectural designs. Optimal use of sunlight and natural wind flow pattern are an integral part of Green Architecture. The structural designs aim to incorporate appliances and electrical devices, which are energy efficient such as fluorescent lights and solar heaters. Structural designs incorporate concepts such as on site energy generation of wind, biomass and water.

A holistic Green designed building looks at all aspects of living like a self-sustaining ecosystem. For example, wastewater can be recycled to water the garden and organic waste generated by the occupants can be converted into manure in compost pits, which can be used for the garden. Reduction in the use of synthetic materials is one of the initiatives of Green Architecture. Toxic fumes generated by aging synthetic paints are a health hazard. Some synthetic building insulation material contains formaldehyde, a known carcinogen, which has affected the health of countless citizens. Green Architecture aims at reducing the use of all such material so that people can live in healthier environment. Green initiatives require concerted national and international effort.

The Leadership in Energy and Environment Design (LEED) is a US initiative that sets standards for design and construction practices more in tune with nature having the least negative effect on the surrounding environment and the people. As per the LEED standard factors such as sustainable sites, water efficiency, energy and atmosphere, material and resources and indoor environmental quality are given different weighted points. Based on the weights, certification points are calculated which are graded as Certified, Silver, Gold and Platinum. Platinum is the most environment friendly and healthy LEED certification. Canada, India and Israel have adapted the US LEED model for some of their Green Architecture projects. Other countries use their own standards for Green Architecture. Some of the countries adopting own standards for Green Architecture are Australia, France, Germany, Japan , Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand and UK.

Intensive effort is required by the building industry to address the serious environmental conditions facing the world. That difference can be made by adopting Green Architecture as the standard for the future of construction.

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