Activity 2.3.

2 Green Building and Sustainable

Design

Introduction
Green building design and sustainable architecture are reshaping the practices and products of
modern construction and are providing solutions that balance environmental, social, and
economic benefits.

Climate change concerns and a sense of stewardship for the earth are motivating the use of
green building products and sustainable techniques. Energy use in buildings is increasing and
could continue to rise. By using new sustainable methods, materials, and mechanical
components, architects and engineers are able to create structures that can curb that trend. A
sustainable building design reduces pressure on the environment by decreasing energy use,
reducing the consumption of water, and conserving and preserving natural resources as well as
reducing pollution during the life cycle of a building.

In addition to incorporating sustainable features, designers should also address occupant needs
and comfort when planning a building. Desirable work space and living environments allow
users to be more productive and comfortable. Careful consideration must be given to natural
light and interior temperatures as well as materials that emit low levels of toxins.

In this activity you will learn about green and sustainable practices in preparation for the design
of your Affordable House. During the design process, continually consider incorporating
sustainable features into your home design.

Equipment
Engineering notebook
Computer with Internet access

Procedure
In groups of two to three, you will learn more about green and sustainable practices and then
respond to the questions. For each statement below, describe a reasonable action. Use the US
Green Building Council (www.usgbc.org) and the US Environmental Protection Agency
(www.epa.gov) sites to begin your search, but seek out reliable information on each topic from
at least one other website source. Be sure to cite each additional reference.

1. Rainfall falls on most parcels of property throughout the world. Describe one method that
could be used to collect this natural resource.Website:
http//www.epa.gov/sites/production/files/2016-10/documents/green_infrastructure_brochure_fin
al.pdf- Green infrastructure prevents or reduces the amount of runoff that flows directly into
storm drains and can be a vital tool for cities to address combined sewer overflows and nutrient
impairment.

2. Describe a landscape design technique that benefits the environment.

Website: http//http://www.ct.gov/deep/cwp/view.asp?a=2708&q=492072&depNavGID=1763
Rain Garden
It is a depression that collects runoff from a roof, driveway or yard and allows it to go
into the the ground.

3. Energy use is high in commercial buildings. What might a building designer do to reduce
energy consumption in a building?
Website: http//www.cleanenergyexperts.com/2011/09/15/benefits-of-commercial-solar-power/
Building designers use solar panels to reduce energy consumption. Solar panels are
used to create energy from light, helping big businesses save tons of money.

4. Describe a design feature for a residential structure that would likely result in reduced
water use.
Based on the location of the structure, harvesting rainwater can help reduce water usage.
What the rainwater is being used for helps determine what kind of rainwater harvesting
system you need. Such systems consist of pipes that lead the rainfall from the roof top to
a rain storage tank. It can then be used for whatever purpose.
Website: https://www.cmhc-schl.gc.ca/en/co/grho/grho_016.cfm

5. Describe an innovative construction method or technique that benefits the environment.

Website: http// www.epa.gov/measurements/collection-methods which are collecting methods
such as air and radiation,water,prevention,pesticide and toxic substance some resaerch and
developments,solid waste and emergency responses

6. During the construction cycle of the building, materials and components are delivered to
the site. List a strategy that you will use to recycle the waste produced during the construction
phase.
Website: https://www.wbdg.org/resources/construction-waste-management
Construction products can be selected on the basis of its being designed
and manufactured to be shipped with minimal packaging this will make less
waste.
7. Describe a feature you could incorporate in a home design that would improve indoor
environmental quality.
Website: http//_www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/indoorenv/
Air ventilation and more windows can improve a building's IEQ. Not only is the IEQ based
on ventilation, but is also based off Health hazards and niosh resources. When a civilian
walks into your design you want them to be amazed, and safe which is the most
important part.

8. Building sites offer natural resources that can be utilized for the life of the building.
Describe a method to use a sites natural resources in the construction of the structure.
One method to use a sites natural resources in the construction of the structure is to use
native plants. If you incorporate nature that is already native to that area, it can
potentially add life to the building.
Website: https://www.go-gba.org/resources/green-building-methods/native-plants/

Going Beyond
9. (Optional) Select a company name and design a logo that you might use if you opened
your own architectural design firm that illustrates a commitment to green and sustainable
design.

Conclusion Questions
1. Describe an original green and sustainable idea that you have. Choose one that is not
currently in use as far as you know.

An original green and sustainable idea that I have is to use see through material like
glass for the living room to save energy. This can also be used in other parts of the
house. And possibly incorporate plants and trees into the design rather than cutting
them down. Since sunlight will be lighting up the rooms that have glass.
2. Describe an improvement that you believe could be made to the building where you live
to make it greener. Explain why it is an improvement.
In my building where I live, I believe that the IEQ can be improved based upon looks. I
also believe that my building can use solar panels.