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HABITAT by Salah Eldelb
Sustainability calls for innovation, and both require creativity and the search for constant improvement. Both sustainability and innovation begin with the belief in a possibility and the desire and motivation to realize it. Without the conviction that a green and sustainable future is possible, people would not devote their time and energy to sustainable innovation. Innovation and awareness on the part of government, corporations, non-profit organizations and the public are keys to sustainability.
An important approach to innovation on the path to sustainability is to consider all obstacles encountered as part of a project. For example, the development of technical solutions and cash flow problems are equally important; innovative and sustainable solutions must be sought out for all problems. It is important when finding solutions to look at, and keep the whole picture in mind, and not to fix one thing at the expense of another.
Innovation and sustainability ought to be the cornerstones of individual and corporate philosophy and endeavour. They will identify opportunities to create new value in service, product design, and performance. Ongoing development of novel ecological building systems and methodologies is paramount to our welfare, and will provide major benefits for humanity and the environment globally.
Sustainability will become affordable only with innovation. Governments, organizations and the general public must encourage innovation in the design of economical sustainable building systems that are durable, healthy (no off-gas) and energy efficient. Ideally the green building designer will create organic exterior shapes that are in harmony with the surrounding environment and an interior design that promotes a relaxing atmosphere that enhances the wellbeing of the inhabitants. The most desirable and elegant design solutions are those that reduce complexity while solving multiple problems.
A considerable number of environmentally conscious designers are dedicating their time and resources to develop revolutionary ecological systems that will have a powerfully positive impact on future generations. Many professionals, however, prefer and hold to the old school. For them, change is difficult. There is always risk involved in working on new ideas and techniques, but innovators enjoy many rewards. In addition to the satisfaction they receive for helping their communities and the environment, they achieve professional growth and become leaders in their respective fields.
Sustainability was once a luxury or an accessory. This is no longer the case. It is now a necessity, a must have. Thanks to the ecologically minded who have promoted awareness amongst the general public, individuals and organizations who do not implement sustainability in their work, any work, will soon be left behind. They will be seen as part of the problem rather than part of the solution.
Finding methodologies and solutions, and developing environmental, economical and durable green buildings have become paramount. Concern for the environment and the amount of waste in the construction industry has inspired the development of new environmental buildings and structural systems. The philosophy behind some of these is not just waste reduction, but the use of as much waste materials as possible in the first place.
These systems must be versatile to enable the construction of economical multipurpose structures using recycled materials. The life spans of green buildings should exceed those of the conventional, thereby causing less ecological damage as the environmental impact is spread over a longer period. Durability and resilience are important requirements as they must be able to carry heavy loads, and withstand wind and earthquake stresses.
Green buildings ought to effectively protect the environment by reducing construction waste and saving on energy. They must be construction sensitive causing minimal jobsite disturbance. Materials with low embodied energy (energy used in resource extraction, manufacturing and shipping) should be selected. Local materials should be utilized to reduce energy use and pollution generated by transportation. With innovation, the eco-buildings have the potential to become the backbone of a viable value-added industry bringing prosperity and wellbeing to many communities around the world.
A sustainable green building has three major aspects: the design, materials and jobsite. Decisions made during the design and construction of a building will go on affecting the environmental performance of that building for a long time, perhaps for generations. Design smaller buildings and optimize use of interior space. Make the building adaptable to future changes. Use renewable energy such as passive solar heating, daylighting, natural cooling systems and other methods and ensure an energy efficient design. In your initial plan aim at minimizing waste and optimizing material use.
Design for durability, longer life span, to spread the environmental impacts of building over as long a period as possible. Install water-efficient plumbing fixtures and appliances. Plan for a healthy building by controlling moisture to minimize mold and introduce daylight to as many spaces as possible. Provide for continuous heat-recovery ventilation. Finally provide storage for recyclables to make it easy for occupants to recycle waste.
Buy locally as energy use and pollution generated by transportation should be avoided and specify materials with low embodied energy. Use waste and salvaged building materials as much as possible. Seek independently certified, responsible material supplies and avoid materials that will off-gas pollutants such as solvent-based finishes, adhesives, carpeting, and many other building products that release formaldehyde and other volatile organic compounds into the air.
The most ecological, state-of-the-art structure will carry an immense environmental cost if its occupants have to regularly drive their cars and commute long distance to their place of work. If possible, locate buildings close to transportation to minimize automobile dependence and thus reduce the environmental impact. Protect trees and topsoil during construction to restore local ecosystems. Avoid use of pesticides and other chemicals that leach into the groundwater. Minimize construction waste and sort leftover for recycling. Sell or donate reusable materials.
The spread of sustainable structures is a value-added dream that will enhance all aspects of our lives. A major part of the success of implementing sustainability principles lies in the hands of consumers. To ensure and to keep the sustainability momentum green innovation should be encouraged and additional awareness campaigns are needed.
Salah Eldeib is a consulting engineer. He invented a new type of wooden dome for which he has received several awards. He has given numerous talks on green buildings and sustainability. Salah aspires to be a leader in protecting the environment and in enhancing the quality of life for communities around the globe. salah@canadianwoodendomes.ca
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