Designing a building with green intentions and sustainable energy sources is a necessity in today's world. While the initial cost of construction may be higher priced than traditional building methods, the long-term advantages, benefits and cost-savings of building a modernly efficient and green facility far outweigh any short-term cost. Designing a building that adheres to a LEED certification is highly beneficial to those individuals who will live or work in the building as well as to the environment that surrounds the facility.
There are many different processes that go into the design, implementation and construction of a new building. These processes must be rethought to incorporate green technology and green building techniques. First, the site of the building must be taken into account in order to create the most efficient design for that area. The Position of the sun as well as the positions of surrounding building must be looked at in detail in order to achieve the maximum amount of natural light. Natural lighting is a good way to keep workers feeling awake and refreshed. Furthermore, the design must also take into account where shading comes from in order to keep the building itself well lit, but keep air conditioning costs down. High value insulation should be used in the walls and ceilings in order to keep the natural heat or air conditioning in, lessening the frequency of running the building's HVAC system and saving money in energy costs.
One of the up and coming green design techniques is the roof garden. On particularly tall buildings or building that are in heavily populated areas, the roof garden allows for a natural environment in a city environment. Roof gardens allow for a longer lifespan of the roof and are a great way to catch excess water run off. The extra water can be used to fill toilets or power the sprinkler system inside the building. Other rooftop additions include solar panels and/or wind turbines to generate electricity that can not only power the entire facility, but many blocks of the community as well.
The materials that are used during construction can determine whether the building will meet LEED certification guidelines. Using recycled materials will help you cut down on construction costs as well as help the environment. Another great way to help the environment is by using materials that are manufactured locally as to eliminate the transportation costs and usage of natural resources that they require to be delivered.
The key to constructing a green building with LEED certification is energy efficiency. A facility that produces a minimal amount of waste and is producing as much or more energy that they are consuming will be a great asset to the community and the environment. People who live or work in and around the building will lead happier, healthier lives.
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