HOW SMART HOME AUTOMATION IS BECOMING ESSENTIAL FOR SUSTAINABLE LIVING | Architalktural

 

How Smart Home Automation Is Becoming Essential for Sustainable Living

Discover how smart home automation is revolutionizing sustainable living through energy efficiency, cost savings, and eco-friendly innovation. In a world where environmental awareness is essential, sustainability has evolved from a mere buzzword to a necessity. As global energy demands increase, it is crucial to find efficient and eco-friendly solutions for our homes. This is where smart home automation comes into play. It represents a powerful combination of technology and sustainability that is transforming how we live, consume, and conserve resources. From smart thermostats that reduce energy waste to water systems designed to prevent overuse, automation is enabling homeowners to make significant contributions to a greener planet.

OBJECTIVE

I've always perceived discussions around "sustainability" as heavily revolving around nature and the environment, often leading us to revisit traditional practices, fundamentals, and even heritage preservation. However, I've discovered that technology and innovation are vital components of sustainable living. They empower us to tackle critical issues like energy efficiency, water conservation, and carbon footprint reduction more effectively than ever before. In this blog, we will explore how these advancements are paving the way for a greener future. Join us on this inspiring journey toward a sustainable world!

1. Understanding Smart Home Automation

Smart home automation refers to using interconnected devices and systems that automatically manage functions such as lighting, temperature, security, and appliances. These devices are typically powered by the Internet of Things (IoT) — meaning they can communicate, learn user behavior, and optimize operations without constant manual control.

Some common examples include:

• Smart thermostats that learn your schedule and adjust heating or cooling accordingly.

• Automated lighting that dims when rooms are unoccupied.

• Smart plugs and appliances that can be remotely controlled or scheduled.

What makes smart home automation so revolutionary is its ability to reduce energy and resource waste while improving comfort and convenience.

2. The Link Between Smart Homes and Sustainability

A truly sustainable home doesn’t just rely on eco-friendly materials or solar panels — it relies on efficiency. Smart home systems address sustainability in three primary ways:

a. Energy Efficiency

Traditional homes often waste energy through unnecessary lighting, heating, and cooling. Smart systems can monitor energy usage in real-time and make automatic adjustments.

For instance, a smart thermostat can reduce heating when no one’s home or optimize cooling based on outdoor weather patterns. This simple automation can cut energy bills by up to 20–30% annually.

b. Resource Optimization

Beyond electricity, smart devices can manage water consumption and other household resources. Smart irrigation systems, for example, water your garden only when soil moisture levels drop below a certain threshold — preventing waste and saving hundreds of gallons of water yearly.

c. Reduced Carbon Footprint

By curbing excess energy and water use, smart homes contribute directly to lower greenhouse gas emissions. When paired with renewable energy systems like solar panels or wind turbines, the environmental impact is even more profound.

3. Smart Technologies That Drive Sustainable Living

Let’s explore some of the most impactful smart technologies making sustainability achievable in everyday living:

Smart Thermostats

Devices like Google Nest or Ecobee learn your daily habits and temperature preferences. They automatically adjust heating and cooling to minimize waste, often syncing with weather data to predict temperature shifts.

Smart Lighting Systems

Smart bulbs and lighting systems (like Philips Hue) adjust brightness based on natural light levels or occupancy. You can schedule them, use motion sensors, or even sync them with sunrise and sunset patterns — drastically cutting unnecessary energy use.

Smart Appliances

Modern refrigerators, dishwashers, and washing machines now come with “eco-modes” and Wi-Fi connectivity. These appliances can run during off-peak energy hours or send notifications when maintenance is needed, extending their lifespan and reducing energy demand.

Water Management Systems

From smart showerheads that track water usage to intelligent leak detection systems, water automation helps prevent waste. Smart irrigation systems use weather forecasts and soil sensors to water plants only when needed.

Renewable Energy Integration

Smart homes increasingly integrate solar panels, battery storage systems, and electric vehicle (EV) chargers. These systems not only generate clean power but also use AI to manage when and how energy is consumed, stored, or sold back to the grid.

4. Data-Driven Sustainability

One of the greatest strengths of smart home automation is data — and how it empowers users to make smarter decisions.

Real-Time Energy Analytics

Smart meters and dashboards provide detailed insights into your home’s energy patterns. You can track which appliances consume the most power, identify inefficiencies, and adjust behavior accordingly.

AI and Predictive Management

Advanced systems use AI and machine learning to predict future energy needs. For example, an AI-based thermostat might learn that you usually turn the heat up on cool mornings and do it automatically — but only when energy rates are lowest.

Community and Grid Benefits

When many smart homes share energy data, entire communities can optimize electricity distribution and reduce strain on the grid — paving the way for smarter, more sustainable cities.

5. Economic and Environmental Benefits

Smart home automation isn’t just eco-friendly — it’s economically smart too.

Lower Utility Bills

The U.S. Department of Energy estimates that smart thermostats alone can save homeowners about 10% annually on heating and cooling costs. Combine that with efficient lighting and appliances, and you’re looking at substantial long-term savings.

Government Incentives

Many governments and local utilities now offer rebates or tax credits for smart, energy-efficient devices and renewable integrations like solar panels or EV chargers.

Reduced Waste, Longer Lifespan

Smart monitoring ensures systems run only when necessary, extending the life of devices and reducing e-waste — another often-overlooked sustainability benefit.

6. Challenges and Considerations

While the benefits are clear, smart home sustainability isn’t without challenges.

Upfront Costs

Smart systems can have higher initial costs compared to traditional setups. However, the return on investment (ROI) often becomes evident within a few years due to lower utility bills.

Privacy and Data Security

Because smart homes rely on connectivity, data security is a legitimate concern. Homeowners must ensure their devices use encrypted communication and secure Wi-Fi networks.

Compatibility

With so many smart devices and platforms available, ensuring compatibility between different brands and ecosystems (like Google Home, Apple HomeKit, or Alexa) can be tricky — though industry standards are improving.

7. The Future of Smart and Sustainable Living

Looking ahead, the connection between smart technology and sustainability will only deepen.

• AI-Powered Homes: Next-generation homes will self-optimize — learning from years of data to minimize consumption automatically.

• Smart Cities: Imagine neighborhoods that communicate with local power grids to share surplus energy.

• Accessible Tech: As costs decrease, smart sustainable living will become attainable for a broader audience, not just luxury homeowners.

Ultimately, smart automation is shaping the future of environmental responsibility — not through sacrifice, but through intelligent innovation.

8. Practical Tips for Homeowners

If you’re ready to make your home smarter and greener, here’s where to start:

1. Start Small: Begin with smart bulbs or plugs to monitor energy use.

2. Invest in a Smart Thermostat: It’s one of the most effective sustainability upgrades.

3. Use Energy Monitoring Apps: Tools like Sense or EnergyHub help track consumption.

4. Leverage Automation Routines: Set “away” or “sleep” modes to conserve energy automatically.

5. Integrate Renewables: Consider solar power or EV charging when budget allows.

Each small step compounds into major savings and a smaller carbon footprint.

FINAL THOUGHTS

Smart home automation is not just a luxury; it is a vital step toward sustainable living. By efficiently managing energy, water, and other resources, these systems empower homeowners to enjoy comfort while actively reducing their environmental footprint. As technology progresses, the potential for sustainability resonates within our own homes. From smart thermostats that optimize heating and cooling to solar integration that harnesses natural energy, every connected device plays a crucial role in building a greener and more efficient world. In conclusion, smart homes represent more than just a trend — they are the foundation for a sustainable future. Embracing this technology is not just beneficial; it is essential for a healthier planet.

Ar. JOEY CASTANEDA

Architect, Sustainable Architecture

Link in account for architectural works.

Linktree account for artworks.

REFERENCES AND FURTHER READINGS:

1. Arasid, W., Zakaria, D., & Ubad Abdullah, C. “An IoT-based smart home prototype: Enhancing energy efficiency, water conservation, and sustainability education.” Journal of Environment and Sustainability Education, v3 i3. DOI: 10.62672/joease.v3i3.148.

https://joease.id/index.php/joease/article/view/148

2. Ubarhande, K., & Vanarse, S. (2024). “GREEN IoT for Smart Homes: Reducing Energy Consumption and Enhancing Sustainability.” ShodhKosh: Journal of Visual & Performing Arts, Vol. 5 Issue 6, 3129-3138. DOI: 10.29121/shodhkosh.v5.i6.2024.3640.

https://www.granthaalayahpublication.org/Arts-Journal/ShodhKosh/article/view/3640

3. Hendron, R., Heinemeier, K., German, A., & Pereira, J. (2021). “Modeling Savings for ENERGY STAR Smart Home Energy Management Systems (Technical Report).” OSTI.gov. DOI: 10.2172/1807789.

https://www.osti.gov/biblio/1807789

4. Parker, D., Sutherland, K., & Chasar, D. “Evaluation of the Space Heating and Cooling Energy Savings of Smart Thermostats in a Hot-Humid Climate Using Long-Term Data.” FSEC RR-647-16, 2016.

https://stars.library.ucf.edu/fsec/113/

5. ENERGY STAR. “Smart Thermostats – Smart Thermostats | ENERGY STAR Home Upgrade.” U.S. EPA ENERGY STAR program.

https://www.energystar.gov/products/energy_star_home_upgrade/smart_thermostats

6. Kumar, M. & Pandey, K. M. “The Impact of IoT on Smart Home Energy Management.” International Journal of Soft Computing and Engineering (IJSCE), Vol. 13 No. 5 (2023). DOI: 10.35940/ijsce.D3647.13051123.

https://journals.blueeyesintelligence.org/index.php/ijsce/article/view/506

7. “Future of Energy Management Models in Smart Homes: A Systematic Literature Review of Research Trends, Gaps, and Future Directions.” Process Integration and Optimization for Sustainability, Vol. 9, 2025.

https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s41660-025-00506-x

PHOTO ATTRIBUTION:

All photos used are royalty-free courtesy of Pixabay.com

DESIGN THAT LISTENS TO NATURE: Climate Responsive and Bio-Climatic Approaches in Sustainable Architecture | Architalktural

 

Gando School, Africa

DESIGN THAT LISTENS TO NATURE: Climate Responsive and Bio-Climatic Approaches in Sustainable Architecture

In a world increasingly impacted by climate change, architects and designers are rediscovering a fundamental principle: the best buildings are those that harmonize with nature. Climate-responsive and bio-climatic design are more than just trendy architectural terms; they are crucial strategies for creating sustainable, comfortable, and energy-efficient spaces that complement the environment rather than oppose it. But what do these concepts really mean, and why are they important in today's world? Let's explore.

OBJECTIVE

In my quest to reach out to the non-technical community for the purpose of awareness on the advocacy behind environmental cause, I would like to emphasize on the importance of the design focusing on the human needs as the priority among all the factors. We need to understand that the response of our design to the nature is just secondary. The main objective is that we respond to the nature in order to meet the needs of the occupants. Let me take this opportunity to thank all of you as you continue reading my blogs, rest assured that the uniqueness of the discussions are based on my acquired education, work experiences, and additional research work to validate authenticity.

What is Climate Responsive or Bio-Climatic Design?

Climate-responsive or bio-climatic design embodies the art of crafting buildings that harmonize with the local climate and environmental conditions. Rather than relying solely on mechanical systems to regulate heat, cold, wind, or rain, these innovative design approaches weave together thoughtful planning, natural elements, and passive techniques to create spaces that are not only naturally comfortable but also remarkably energy-efficient. While some experts draw subtle distinctions between the two terms—viewing "climate-responsive design" as a broader strategy and "bio-climatic design" as a celebration of the synergy between a building and its natural surroundings—most people use them interchangeably. Ultimately, both terms beautifully describe architecture that is attuned to its environment, creating a captivating and sustainable synergy.

Why It Matters in Sustainable Architecture

Buildings that respect their environment offer multiple benefits, making them a cornerstone of sustainable architecture:

✔ Reduced Energy Consumption: By using natural light, ventilation, and insulation, the need for artificial heating, cooling, and lighting drops significantly.

✔ Enhanced Comfort: Occupants enjoy more consistent indoor temperatures, fresh air, and better living conditions.

✔ Lower Carbon Footprint: Less energy use means fewer greenhouse gas emissions, helping to fight climate change.

✔ Respect for Resources: Local materials and designs that suit the climate minimize waste and promote resource efficiency.

Ultimately, climate responsive design is not just about saving energy — it's about creating buildings that are healthier for both people and the planet.

Principles and Strategies of Climate Responsive Design

Here are some of the key ways architects apply these principles:

1. Site and Orientation

A building's position can make all the difference. By carefully orienting the structure to maximize natural light and capture cooling breezes, architects can reduce reliance on artificial systems.

2. Building Form and Layout

The shape and layout of a building matter. For example, compact, well-insulated forms are ideal for colder regions, while open, airy layouts suit warmer climates.

3. Material Selection

Choosing the right materials is crucial. Local, climate-appropriate materials not only reduce environmental impact but often perform better in the given conditions.

In designing and building the Gando Primary School in Africa, Pritzker Price awardee, Architect Francis Kéré’s innovative solution was to use local materials and traditional building techniques to create a school that was not only functional but also sustainable and environmentally friendly.

4. Shading and Sun Control

Overhangs, louvers, pergolas, and even vegetation can be used to block harsh sunlight while still allowing for daylight and ventilation.

5. Natural Ventilation

Designing windows, vents, and openings to encourage cross-ventilation helps maintain indoor air quality and reduce the need for air conditioning.

6. Thermal Mass and Insulation

Using materials like stone, brick, or concrete that absorb and slowly release heat helps stabilize indoor temperatures throughout the day.

7. Rainwater Harvesting and Passive Cooling

Simple techniques like collecting rainwater or incorporating reflective surfaces can help cool buildings and reduce water consumption. Check out our video below:

Climate Zones and Design Responses

Different climates require different design solutions. Here's a quick look at how architecture adapts:

Tropical / Hot-Humid Climates

• Lightweight materials

• Wide overhangs and shaded verandas

• Elevated structures for airflow

Hot-Arid Climates

• Thick walls and small windows to block heat

• Internal courtyards for cooling

• Light-colored exteriors to reflect sunlight

Temperate Climates

• Flexible designs for seasonal changes

• Good insulation and controlled sun exposure

Cold Climates

• Compact building forms to retain heat

• South-facing windows (in the Northern Hemisphere) for passive solar gain

• High insulation levels

Real-World Examples

Climate responsive design isn’t new — it has been practiced for centuries. Think of:

• Traditional Filipino Bahay Kubo: Raised floors, large windows, and thatched roofs keep the house cool in the tropical heat.

• Middle Eastern Courtyard Homes: Thick walls and shaded courtyards offer relief in hot-arid climates.

• Modern Eco-Resorts and Passive Houses: Contemporary projects that blend traditional wisdom with modern technology to minimize energy use and environmental impact.

Bio-Climatic Design and Modern Technology

Today’s architects don’t have to rely on tradition alone. Smart technologies complement bio-climatic design by enhancing performance:

• Solar panels provide renewable energy.

• Smart windows adjust shading automatically.

• Sensors optimize ventilation and lighting.

The magic happens when modern innovation meets nature-inspired design.

Challenges and Considerations

Of course, climate responsive design isn’t without its challenges:

• Some sites have physical or legal limitations.

• Budget constraints may affect material choices.

• Success depends on integrating these principles early in the design process.

• Public awareness and education still need to catch up.

But the long-term benefits — for both the environment and building occupants — far outweigh these hurdles.

FINAL THOUGHTS

Let’s Build with Nature, Not Against It

In the face of pressing environmental challenges, our approach to design and construction must undergo a transformative evolution. Embracing climate-responsive and bioclimatic design opens the door to architecture that transcends mere sustainability—crafting timeless buildings that beautifully harmonize with the land, honor our precious natural resources, and cultivate healthier spaces for all. Now is the moment to create structures that are attuned to the rhythms of nature. When architecture collaborates with the climate, we all thrive.

Interested in learning more about sustainable architecture? Stay tuned for more blogs on design that makes a difference.

Ar J CASTANEDA

Architect, Sustainable Architecture

Link in account for architectural works.

Linktree account for artworks.

VIDEO VERSION:

PHOTO ATTRIBUTION

GANDO PRIMARY SCHOOL in Africa

By Helge Fahrnberger / www.helge.at - Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=6446608

Bahay Kubo photo is original by Architalktural

Other photos are courtesy of Pexel.com

SUSTAINABILITY CONCEPTS RELATING TO GREEN BUILDING DESIGN | Architalktural

 

Hybrid solar/wind system, 2400W windturbines, 4000W solar modules, island Zirje, Croatia 
(See Photo attributions below)

SUSTAINABILITY CONCEPTS RELATING TO GREEN BUILDING DESIGN

In my architectural practice, I have consistently tackled critical environmental challenges, such as reducing carbon emissions from boiler chimneys, optimizing tallow fat collection in sewage systems, and ensuring effective monitoring and testing of wastewater treatment outputs. However, I found myself working without a comprehensive understanding of essential terms like carbon footprints, eco-friendliness, and sustainability. My knowledge was limited to concepts like clean smoke, pollution-free practices, and recycling. This realization inspired me to create a blog that serves as an informative resource for anyone keen on delving into the vital subject of sustainability, particularly in the realm of sustainable architecture and green building.

OBJECTIVE

This blog serves as a vital resource on the topic of sustainability. Drawing primarily from the study materials I explored in a Sustainable Architecture course I completed through Alison, which also included insights from Swayan, an esteemed educational agency. I want to acknowledge these organizations for their invaluable contributions to my work and writings, and to this blog in particular. To enhance authenticity, my personal insights are added where I share some of my professional experiences, examples, and relevance that serve as commentaries on the study material excerpts.

I invite professionals, students, and ordinary individuals alike to join me on this journey of discovery. If you are passionate about learning more about sustainability and making a positive impact, this blog is for you. Let's collaborate and grow together in our shared commitment to a sustainable future!

GREEN BUILDING SUSTAINABILITY CONCEPTS

1. CARBON FOOTPRINT

Referenced definition:

• A carbon footprint is historically defined as the total emissions caused by an individual event, organization, or product, expressed as carbon dioxide equivalent.

• A measure of the total amount of carbon dioxide (CO2) and Methane (CH4) emissions of a defined population, system or activity, considering all relevant sources, sinks and storage within the spatial and temporal boundary of the population, system or activity of interest. Calculated as carbon dioxide equivalent using the relevant 100-year global warming potential (GWP 100).

Personal insight: As this is the definition I derived from the course I attended, I would rather add “buildings” or “green buildings” in the list in my quest to connect architecture into the concept in general.

This definition refers to a larger scale of Sustainable Built Environment as I have discussed in my previous blog linked as follows:

THE SCALES OF SUSTAINABLE BUILT ENVIRONMENT

In relation to green building, this concept enables the measurement of the greenhouse gas emissions from building materials, construction, and operations. One good example of applying this concept in green building is the use of low-carbon materials like bamboo or reclaimed wood that reduces the carbon footprint of a green building. Please check out one of my older blogs that talks about reclaimed woods:

SUSTAINABILITY BEGINS IN THE KITCHEN, WOULD YOU BELIEVE?

Bamboo House designed by Kengo Kuma at Commune by the Great Wall (See attributions below

2. ENVIRONMENTAL FOOTPRINT

Referenced definition:

This refers to the environmental impact determined by the amount of depletable raw materials and non-renewable resources consumed to make products (including structures), and the quantity of wastes and emissions generated in the process.

Personal Insight: As this definition specifically mentions about “structures,” it is well understood that the term “environmental footprint” is connected to sustainable architecture and green building as a subject matter. This concept enables the assessment of the total environmental impact (land use, resource depletion, pollution) of a building.

3. THE 3R’S OF SUSTAINABILITY

• Reduce

• Reuse

• Recycle

NOTE: A very comprehensive definition of the aforementioned concepts of sustainability are provided in my previous blog:

THE 3r'S OF SUSTAINABILITY AND ITS IMPACT IN SUSTAINABLE ARCHITECTURE

4. CIRCULAR ECONOMY

Referenced definition:

• A circular economy is an economic system aimed at minimizing waste and making the most of resources. In a circular system resource input and waste, emission, and energyleakage are minimized by slowing, closing and narrowing energy and material loops; this can be achieved through long lasting design, maintenance, repair, reuse, remanufacturing, refurbishing and recycling.

• This regenerative approach is in contrast to the traditional linear economy, which has a take, make, dispose model of production.

Personal insights: This is quite similar to the 3Rs of Sustainability, although this one has more process in between. In relation to the green building concept, it promotes materials and resources staying in use longer. For example, designing modular buildings where parts can be dismantled and reused in new structures.

5. RENEWABLE RESOURCES

Referenced definitions:

From course material: Renewable resources are resources that have the capability to be naturally and organically replaced in a set time period.

Per Wikipedia: Definitions of renewable resources may also include agricultural production, as in agricultural products and to an extent water resources. In 1962, Paul Alfred Weiss defined renewable resources as: "The total range of living organisms providing man with life, fibres, etc...". Another type of renewable resources is renewable energy resources. Common sources of renewable energy include solar, geothermal and wind power, which are all categorized as renewable resources. Fresh water is an example of a renewable resource.

Personal insight: With green buildings, this concept emphasizes using resources that naturally replenish. For example, utilizing sustainably harvested timber or solar energy systems in design.

6. LIFE CYCLE ASSESSMENT

Photo attribution below

Referenced definition:

Life cycle assessment is a technique to assess environmental impacts associated with all the stages of a products life from a raw material extraction through materials processing, manufacture, distribution, use, repair and maintenance, and disposal or recycling.

Per Wikipedia: Life cycle assessment (LCA), also known as life cycle analysis, is a methodology for assessing the impacts associated with all the stages of the life cycle of a commercial product, process, or service. For instance, in the case of a manufactured product, environmental impacts are assessed from raw material extraction and processing (cradle), through the product's manufacture, distribution and use, to the recycling or final disposal of the materials composing it (grave).

Personal insights: In relation to green building concept, it analyzes the environmental impacts of a building from material extraction to disposal. For example, choosing insulation with low life cycle emissions after conducting an LCA.

7. CRADLE TO GRAVE

Referenced definition:

Cradle to grave is the full life cycle assessment from resource extraction (cradle) to use phase and disposal phase (grave). For example, trees produce paper, which can be recycled into low-energy production cellulosed (fiberized paper) insulation, then used as energy-saving device in the ceiling of a home for 40 years, saving 2,000 times the fossil fuel energy used in its production. After 40 years, the cellulose fibers are replaced and the old fibers are disposed of, possibly incinerated. All inputs and outputs are considered for all the phases of the life cycle.

Personal insights: During my past work experiences, I frequently came across the term “cradle to grave” in engineering job descriptions. This phrase encapsulates a comprehensive work approach, where professionals are tasked with managing projects from the initial planning stages right through to completion. Not only did this clarify the expectations, but it also deepened my understanding of the term’s relevance in sustainability, highlighting the importance of a product’s life cycle in the process.

Concerning green building, it considers the full lifespan of building materials—from creation to disposal. Concrete is often assessed this way, from quarrying to demolition waste, for example.

8. CRADLE TO GATE

Referenced definition:

Cradle to gate is an assessment of a partial product life cycle from resource extraction (cradle) to the factory gate (i.e., before it is transported to the consumer). The use phase and disposal phase of the product are omitted in this case. Cradle to gate assessments are sometimes the basis for environmental product declarations (EPD) termed business-to-business EPDs.

Personal insight: Per green building concept, environmental impact is being evaluated from material creation up to its delivery. Another example is assessing the CO₂ emissions from manufacturing and transporting steel beams.

9. SERVICE LIFE PLANNING

Referenced definition:

• ISO 15686 is the in development ISO standard dealing with service life planning. It is a decision process which addresses the development of the service life of a building component, building or other constructed work like a bridge or tunnel. Its approach is to ensure a proposed design life has a structured response in establishing its service life normally from a reference or estimated service life framework.

• Then in turn secure a life-cycle cost profile (or Whole-life cost when called for) whilst addressing environmental factors like life cycle assessment and service life care and end of life considerations including obsolescence and embodied energy recovery.

• Service life planning is increasingly being linked with sustainable development and whole life value.

Personal insight: In relation to green building concept, this refers to the design of buildings or complex projects to last longer with minimal repairs. For example, specifying durable roofing materials that withstand decades of wear.

10. DESIGN FOR THE ENVIRONMENT

Referenced definition:

Design for the Environment (DfE) is a design approach to reduce the overall human health and environmental impact of a product, process or service, where impacts are considered across its life cycle.

Personal insights: In green buildings, this concept integrates environmental concerns at every design phase. For example, orienting windows for natural daylight to reduce artificial lighting needs.

11. EMBODIED ENERGY

Referenced definition:

Embodied energy is the sum of all the energy required to produce any goods or services, considered as if that energy was incorporated or embodied in the product itself.

Personal Insights: In green building, this concept refers to all energy used to produce building materials. One good example is the choice of rammed earth walls, which have lower embodied energy than concrete.

Grange Porcher, former weaving mill, Le Curetet, Nivolas-Vermelle, Isère. Rammed earth wall.
(See photo attributions below)

12. ECODESIGN

Referenced definition:

Ecodesign is an approach to designing products with special consideration for the environmental impacts of the product during its whole life cycle. In a life cycle assessment, the life cycle of a product is usually divided into procurement, manufacture, use and disposal.

Personal insight: This refers to the design of green buildings with minimal ecological impact, such as those with green roofs that improve insulation and support local biodiversity.

13. ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECT ANALYSIS

Referenced definitions:

• One instrument to identify the factors that are important for the reduction of the environmental impact during all life cycle stages is the environmental effect analysis (EEA).

• For an EEA the following are taken into account:

  - Customer’s wishes

  - Legal requirements, market requirements (competitors)

  - Data concerning the product and the manufacturing process.

Personal insights: With the green building concept, this refers to the evaluation of how building choices affect air, water, soil, and ecosystems. For example, conducting

environmental impact assessments before constructing near wetlands to avoid ecological disruption.

14. WATER FOOTPRINT

Referenced definitions:

• The water footprint shows the extent of water use in relation to consumption by people.

• The water footprint of the individual, community or business is defined as the total volume of the fresh water used to produce the goods and services consumed by the individual or or community or produced by the business. Water use is measured in the water volume consumed (evaporated) and/or polluted per unit of time.

• A water footprint can be calculated for any well-defined group of consumers (e.g., an individual, family, village, city, province, state or nation) or producers (e,g,. a public organization private enterprise or economic sector), for a single process (such as growing rice) or for any product or service.

Personal insights: In the green building concept, this involves the measurement of water usage in construction and operation. For example, the installation of low-flowfixtures and greywater systems to reduce water consumption.

15. CARBON OFFSET

Referenced definition:

A unit of carbon dioxide equivalent that is reduced , avoided, or sequestered to compensate for emissions occurring elsewhere (World Resources Institute).

Personal insight: In relation to green building, it compensates for unavoidable emissions during construction or operation. For example, purchasing renewable energy credits to offset emissions from HVAC systems.

16. OZONE DEPLETION

Referenced definition:

Destruction of the earth’s ozone layer by the photolyctic breakdown of chlorine and/or bromine containing compounds (chlorofluorocarbons or CFCs) which catalyctically decompose ozone molecules. Commonly used as refrigerants, CFCs have been found to damage the stratospheric ozone layer, creating holes and allowing harmful ultraviolet radiation to leakthrough.

Personal insight: In green buildings, this is related to the use of refrigerants and insulation materials. For example, avoiding ozone-depleting substances like certain HFCs in HVAC systems.

17. SICK BUILDING SYNDROME

Referenced definition:

A building whose occupants experience acute health and/or comfort affects that appear to be linked to time spent therein, but where no specific illness or cause can be identified. Complaints can be localized in a particular room or zone, or may be spread throughout the building and may abate on leaving the building.

Personal insight: In green buildings, sick building syndrome is caused by poor indoor air quality or off-gassing materials. One good solution is the use of non-toxic, low-VOC paints and ensuring proper ventilation.

18. CHLOROFLUOROCARBONS (CFC)

Referenced definition:

Stable, artificially created chemical compounds containing carbon, chlorine, fluorine and sometimes, hydrogen. Chlorofluorocarbons, used primarily to facilitate cooling in refrigerators and air-conditioners, deplete the stratospheric ozone layer that protects the earth and its inhabitants from excessive ultraviolet radiation.

Personal insights: In green buildings, this refers to substances that used to be common in cooling systems. One solution is replacing old HVAC systems to eliminate CFCs and protect the ozone layer.

19. GREENFIELD AND BROWNFIELD

Referenced definition:

The Greenfield project means that a work which is not following a prior work. In infrastructure the projects on the unused lands where there is no need to remodel or demolish an existing structure are called Greenfield projects. The projects which are modified or upgraded are called Brownfield projects.

Personal insight: In green buildings, site selection impacts environmental sustainability. For example, redeveloping a brownfield site reduces urban sprawl and utilizes existing infrastructure.

20. ENERGY PERFORMANCE INDEX (EPI)

Referenced definition:

Energy Performance Index (EPI) is total energy consumed in a building over a year divided by total bult up area in kWh/sqm/year and is considered as a simplest and most relevant indicator for qualifying a building as energy efficient or not.

Personal insight: In green building concept, this refers to the measurement of the energy efficiency of a building. For example, a high EPI rating indicates better energy performance and lower operational emissions.

21. CIRCLES OF SUSTAINABILITY

Referenced definition:

Circles of Sustainability is a method for understanding and assessing sustainability, and for managing projects directed towards socially sustainable outcomes. It is intended to handle, seemingly intractable problem such as outlined insustainable development debates.

Personal insight: In green buildings, particularly in urban development, there are four dimensions considered in this concept: economic, ecological, political, and cultural. For example, designing community-oriented housing that is energy-efficient and culturally inclusive.

FINAL THOUGHTS

After learning about the various concepts involved in sustainability, I realized just how vast the subject is. I was finally able to identify where my work assignments fit within this framework. I recently became familiar with the term "Carbon Footprint," which relates to the boiler exhaust chimney project I completed. I know I could have done better in that project, but I believe it’s never too late to learn. Sharing my knowledge and experiences through my blogs about sustainability helps encourage others to engage in advocacy that holds significant value for future generations. It’s definitely worth it!

Ar. J CASTANEDA

Architect, Sustainable Architecture

Link in account for architectural works.

Linktree account for artworks.

THIS BLOG'S VIDEO VERSION:

Citations:

https://www.wikipedia.org/

https://onlinecourses.nptel.ac.in/

https://alison.com/

Photo attributions:

Grange Porcher, former weaving mill, Le Curetet, Nivolas-Vermelle, Isère. Detail of the frame and wall rammed earth. (By Wikimedia Commons : Hélène Rival, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=78366129)

Cover Photo: Hybrid solar/wind system, 2400W windturbines, 4000W solar modules, island Zirje, Croatia (Nenad Kajić / Veneko.hr, CC BY-SA 4.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0>, via Wikimedia Commons)

Bamboo House designed by Kengo Kuma at Commune by the Great Wall (By AsAuSo - Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=93097579)

Lifecycle Assessment Framework: lecture material, SWAYAM: https://onlinecourses.nptel.ac.in/