Green Building Systems ADID 485 Presentation PDF

UNIVERSITY OF TABUK COLLEGE OF ARTS AND DESIGN DEPARTMENT OF INTERIOR DESIGN Green Building Systems ADID 485 PREPARED BY: PROF. SUZAN ALI Arab Green Building Rating Systems  Arab green building rating systems are...

UNIVERSITY OF TABUK COLLEGE OF ARTS AND DESIGN DEPARTMENT OF INTERIOR DESIGN Green Building Systems ADID 485 PREPARED BY: PROF. SUZAN ALI Arab Green Building Rating Systems  Arab green building rating systems are frameworks designed to assess and promote sustainable building practices in Introduction to the Arab region. Arab Green Purpose: To address regional Building Rating environmental challenges, promote Systems sustainability, and improve building performance. These systems cater to the unique climatic, cultural, and socio-economic conditions of the Arab world  a) Green Pyramid Rating System Example of Arab Green Building Rating b) Estidama Rating System Systems c) QSAS Rating System  a) Green Pyramid Rating System Developed by: Egyptian Green Building Council (EGBC) Aimed at encouraging sustainable building practices. Green Pyramid Rating System Certification Levels: 1. Certified 2. Silver Pyramid 3. Golden Pyramid 4. Green Pyramid Unlike other international rating systems, the highest level of certification is labeled green rather than platinum. Green Pyramid Rating System Categories: 1. Energy Efficiency 2. Water Efficiency 3. Indoor Environmental Quality 4. Sustainable Site Development 5. Materials and Resources Innovation Green Pyramid Rating System Process: Project registration Submission of documentation Third-party assessment Certification based on points and compliance Examples rated by Green Pyramid Rating System 1- Smart Village: “The Green business Park” Located in Giza, this business district has several buildings that have achieved GPRS certification for their green building practices. One of Smart Village’ rated buildings: Telecom Egypt  One of Smart Village’ rated buildings: VALEO Company Examples rated by Green Pyramid Rating System 2- The American University in Cairo (AUC) New Campus: The AUC campus has been awarded for its energy- efficient buildings and sustainable campus operations. Examples rated by Green Pyramid Rating System 3- Cairo Festival City This mixed-use urban community in Cairo has been recognized for its sustainable design and construction practices b) Estidama Rating System Developed by: Abu Dhabi Urban Planning Council (UPC) Estidama is the sustainability initiative for the Emirate of Abu Dhabi. b) Estidama Rating System Certification Levels: Pearl 1, Pearl 2, Pearl 3, Pearl 4 and Pearl 5 b) Estidama Rating System Categories: Integrated Development Process Natural Systems Energy Water Indoor Environmental Quality Materials Construction Process Innovation b) Estidama Rating System Process: Registration and pre-assessment Design and construction documentation review Performance testing Certification based on compliance and points Examples rated by Estidama Rating System 1- Masdar City: in Abu Dhabi Known for its sustainable design, it is a prominent example of a development that adheres to the Estidama principles. Examples rated by Estidama Rating System 2. The Louvre Abu Dhabi: This iconic museum has been designed with sustainability in mind, achieving a high Pearl rating. c) GSAS Rating System Global Sustainability Assessment System Originating in Qatar as QGBC (Qatar Green Building Council) QSAS is tailored to the specific needs of the Qatari climate and urban environment. c) QSAS Rating System Certification Levels: One, Two, Three, Four, and Five Stars Categories: Sustainability Vision and Strategy Energy Efficiency Water Efficiency Indoor Environmental Quality Sustainable Site Development Materials and Resources Innovation and Design c) QSAS Rating System Process: Project registration Documentation submission Assessment and review by accredited professionals Certification awarded based on points achieved  Since its deployment in 2009, over 128 buildings in Qatar have been certified through QSAS. It has also been integrated into the Qatar Construction Specifications, making certain criteria mandatory for buildings developed in Qatar Example rated by QSAS Qatar National Convention Center: Located in Doha, this iconic structure is recognized for its energy efficiency and environmental stress mitigation  Comparison of Arab Green Building Rating Systems Green Pyramid Estidama QSAS Emphasizes integrated Focuses on energy, Addresses Qatar-specific Criteria and development, natural water, and materials sustainability needs with Focus systems, and performance in Egypt a broad set of criteria testing in Abu Dhabi Adapted to Egyptian Tailored to the unique Designed for the specific Regional climatic and environmental and cultural sustainability challenges Adaptations environmental context of Abu Dhabi in Qatar. conditions Benefits and Challenges of Arab Green Building Rating Systems Benefits: Environmental: Reduces environmental impact and promotes sustainability. Economic: Potential cost savings, increased property value, and access to incentives. Social: Enhances occupant health, well-being, and productivity. Benefits and Challenges of Arab Green Building Rating Systems Challenges: Cost: Higher initial investment and certification fees. Complexity: Detailed documentation and assessment processes. Awareness: Need for knowledge and understanding of different systems. Associate Prof. / Suzan Ali A. Mustafa – ZU  UNIVERSITY OF TABUK COLLEGE OF ARTS AND DESIGN DEPARTMENT OF INTERIOR DESIGN Green Building Systems ADID 485 PREPARED BY: PROF. SUZAN ALI  Material Water Energy conservation Main Green Efficiency efficiency and resource efficiency Rating Systems Sustainable location and Planning and sites transportation design Categories Indoor Environmental Innovation Quality ‫‪Main Green Rating‬‬ ‫‪Systems Categories‬‬ ‫‪1- Water Efficiency‬‬ ‫س ِرفُوا إِنههُ ََل يُ ِح ُّ ا ْل ُم ْ‬ ‫س ِرفِ َ‬ ‫ين}‬ ‫{ َو ُكلُوا َواش َْربُوا َو ََل ت ُ ْ‬ ‫روى اإلمام أحمد (‪ )6768‬وابن ماجة(‪ )419‬ع َْن َ‬ ‫ع ْب ِد‬ ‫ي‬‫اص رضي هللا عنهما (أَ هن النهبِ ه‬ ‫َّللا ْب ِن ع َْم ِرو ْب ِن ا ْلعَ ِ‬‫هِ‬ ‫ضأ ُ فَقَا َل ‪َ :‬ما َه َذا‬‫س ْع ٍد َو ُه َو يَتَ َو ه‬ ‫علَ ْي ِه َو َ‬ ‫سله َم َم هر ِب َ‬ ‫صلهى ه‬ ‫َّللاُ َ‬ ‫َ‬ ‫ف ؟ قَا َل ‪ :‬نَعَ ْم‬‫س َر ٌ‬ ‫وء َ‬ ‫ض ِ‬ ‫س ْع ُد ؟ قَا َل ‪ :‬أ َ ِفي ا ْل ُو ُ‬ ‫ف يَا َ‬ ‫س َر ُ‬ ‫ال ه‬ ‫علَى نَ ْه ٍر َج ٍار) ‪.‬‬ ‫‪َ ،‬و ِإ ْن ُك ْنتَ َ‬ Introduction Water efficiency means using water resources wisely and minimizing waste. Water Efficiency category focuses on Reducing water consumption Improving water quality, Managing wastewater. Importance of Water Conservation in Sustainable Design 1- Resource Scarcity Freshwater resources are becoming increasingly scarce worldwide, driven by factors such as climate change, population growth, and pollution. Water conservation in buildings helps reduce the strain on these precious resources. 2- Environmental Impact The construction and operation of buildings have a significant impact on the environment, particularly water consumption. Water conservation minimizes this impact by reducing the demand for treated water and associated energy usage. Importance of Water Conservation in Sustainable Design 3- Cost Savings By implementing water-efficient technologies and strategies, green buildings can achieve substantial cost savings on water bills, reducing the overall operating expenses of the building. 4- Improved Building Performance Water conservation strategies often involve improvements to plumbing systems, irrigation systems, and other building components, which can enhance the overall performance and longevity of the building. Water-Efficient 1- Rainwater Management (Harvesting) Technologies and 2- Greywater Recycling Strategies for 3- Low-flow fixtures Green Buildings 4- Pressure reduction 5- Leak detection system Making a building water- 6- Water-Efficient Appliances efficient involves several 7- Smart Irrigation Systems strategies and technologies. 8- Efficient Landscaping Some effective ways to 9- Behavioral Changes achieve this: 10- Water Treatment Systems 1- Rainwater Management (Harvesting) To Collect and store rainwater for non-potable uses like irrigation, flushing toilets, and even laundry  The rainwater runoff is redirected from the roofs, ceilings and slopes to be storage units for future use. As an example: House in the Countryside has an inverted roof that collects rainwater  Rain gardens help temporarily hold rainwater in areas where there is a natural slope. Planting vegetation helps hold the nutrients of the soil while actively preventing surface runoff. Edinburgh Raingarden  Water catchments Water catchments or watersheds are places where runoff or moving water flows into. It can later be used for a variety of purposes: 1.They catch water to be reused or recycled for the building 2.It can be used as a recreation 3.It can stock up for irrigation or watering purposes. 4.Can be used to encourage habitat for plants and animal species.  2- Greywater Recycling To Reuse water from sinks, showers, and washing machines for irrigation and toilet flushing. The level of contamination and reusability of water depends upon the purpose and is often subjective. Primarily, the water that is uncontaminated by any chemical can be recycled to give it another purpose. Methods of Greywater recycling Direct Use Systems These systems redirect the greywater into another channel using valves for quick reuse before potential bacterial buildup from the first use. Mechanical Filters Greywater can be transported using pumps to carry the water vertically to a storage tank. The water is then treated before it is repurposed for the last time. Methods of Greywater recycling Sand Filter Removes unwanted large particles in the water with the help of gravity. By passing through the four layers of soil, the water in turn gets purified. Wetland Stagnant water is made use of to grow aquatic plants. The aerobic and anaerobic bacteria present in the water purifies it. Water is collected on-site and stored in a cistern which is then used throughout the summer  Redirection to reuse For flushing toilets For watering the plants or garden To wash clothes after being treated Blackwater Treatment Treating wastewater from toilets and other sources to a safe level for irrigation or other non-potable uses can further reduce reliance on freshwater sources. 3- Low-Flow Fixtures Most of the water use and wastage in the buildings occur in faucets and toilets. With the advancement of technology, smart plumbing fixtures help regulate water supply and wastage. 3- Low-Flow Fixtures Methods of achievement: Faucet aerators Shower Regulators Toilet leak detection devices Pressure reducing valves High-efficiency toilets Performance showerheads Recirculating hot water systems Install low-flow faucets, showerheads, and toilets to reduce water usage without compromising performance 4- Pressure Reduction Lowering the water pressure in your building can significantly reduce water consumption 4- Pressure Reduction A water pressure regulator is used to reduce the pressure of water coming into the building through the main water line. This valve brings down the pressure to a safe level so as to not cause any plumbing problems. Some appliances like dishwashers and washing machines have built- in regulators but having them still offers protection to all the fixtures. The regulator has a diaphragm that widens or reduces based on the speed of the water. It can also be tightened or loosened to regulate the flow. 5- Leak Detection Systems Implement sensors and smart meters to detect and alert you to leaks, preventing water waste 6- Water-Efficient Appliances Choose washing machines and dishwashers that are designed to use less water 7- Smart Irrigation Systems: Use drip irrigation and smart controllers that adjust watering schedules based on weather conditions Distributed pipelines help deliver water and nutrients in small quantities throughout the day directly into the roots of the plants. 8- Efficient Landscaping In regions where the rainfall is scarce, drought- resistant landscaping is done. By planting vegetation that needs little to no moisture to grow, the plants are easy to maintain and can survive for long periods of time without water. Permeable pavers with water-wise plantings at the front garden Benefits of plants that needs little to no moisture to grow 1.They don’t require a constant supply of water 2.They keep up the quality of soil and prevent the occurrence of droughts. 3.Improves the appeal of the space even when there isn’t wide green ground at sight. Landscape Design for Water- Wise Outdoor Spaces Native Plants Using native plants that are adapted to the local climate requires less water and maintenance, promoting biodiversity and reducing the need for irrigation. Permeable Surfaces Using permeable paving materials like pavers or gravel allows rainwater to infiltrate the ground, reducing runoff and replenishing groundwater. 9- Behavioral Changes Encourage occupants to adopt water-saving habits, such as turning off taps while brushing teeth and taking shorter showers 10- Water Treatment Systems Install systems to treat and reuse wastewater on-site Water treatment plants remove undesirable components and decontaminate water to be used for drinking or any other desired usage. 10- Water Treatment Systems There are three main processes involved in the system 1.Physical processes such as settling and filtration 2.Chemical processes such as disinfection and coagulation 3.Biological processes such as slow sand filtration Monitoring and Managing Water Usage in Green Buildings Provide real-time data on water consumption, Smart Meters allowing for accurate monitoring and identification of leaks or inefficient use. Regularly conducted water audits identify areas of Water Audits water waste and suggest improvements to water efficiency practices. Software programs can analyze water usage patterns, Water Management Software identify trends, and provide insights for optimizing water consumption. Integrated BMS can monitor and control water usage Building Management Systems (BMS) throughout the building, optimizing water consumption and reducing waste. A Successful Water- Efficient Green Building The Bullitt Center This building in Seattle, Washington, incorporates a comprehensive water-efficient design, including rainwater harvesting, greywater recycling, and low-flow fixtures. Conclusion and Future Trends in Water Efficiency Technological Advancements Emerging technologies such as smart water meters, AI-powered irrigation systems, and advanced water treatment methods will continue to improve water efficiency. Policy & Regulations Government policies and regulations will play a crucial role in promoting water conservation, incentivizing green building practices, and setting water efficiency standards. Circular Economy The adoption of a circular economy approach will emphasize water reuse and recycling, reducing reliance on freshwater resources and promoting sustainable water management. Collaboration & Innovation Collaboration between architects, engineers, builders, and researchers will drive innovation in water efficiency technologies and strategies. Associate Prof. / Suzan Ali A. Mustafa – ZU  UNIVERSITY OF TABUK COLLEGE OF ARTS AND DESIGN DEPARTMENT OF INTERIOR DESIGN Green Building Systems ADID 485 PREPARED BY: PROF. SUZAN ALI Heat Island Effects What is Cities are typically warmer with slightly higher temperatures compared to their adjacent rural Heat Island areas. “Heat Island” describes built-up areas that are Effects? hotter than nearby rural areas URBAN HEAT ISLAND The Urban Heat Island (UHI) effect refers to the phenomenon where urban areas experience higher temperatures than their rural surroundings due to human activities. This effect can significantly impact energy consumption, air quality, and human health. Urban heat island Little vegetation or evaporation causes cities to remain warmer than the surrounding countryside. For an urban area of just 1 million people, the temperature of that area can be as much as 2-3 degrees Celsius warmer than the area surrounding the heat island.  Factors lead to Heat island 1- Concrete and man-made surface (Paved and Impermeable Surfaces) Paved over surfaces, such as roads and parking lots, can absorb solar radiation as heat , and the surfaces are typically impermeable, which means that water run-off is redirected to the storm water system rather than being absorbed by plants or water bodies that help cool the area through evaporation.  Factors lead to Heat island 2- ReducedNatural Landscapes (Lack of Vegetation) Urban development often replaces trees and green spaces with buildings and roads, reducing the cooling effects of shade and evapotranspiration Insufficient Green Spaces: Limited parks, gardens, and green roofs reduce the natural cooling effects in cities Concrete Jungle Factors lead to Heat island 3. Urban Geometry Building Density Tall buildings and narrow streets can trap heat, reducing airflow and increasing temperatures Factors lead to Heat island 4- Low Albedo (Dark Surfaces) Dark roofs absorb more energy into the building as heat, Urban surfaces typically have a lower albedo, meaning they reflect less sunlight and absorb more heat Factors lead to Heat island 5- Urban Material Properties (Heat-Absorbing Surfaces) Materials like asphalt, concrete, and brick absorb and retain heat more than natural landscapes Factors lead to Heat island 6- Heat Generated from Human Activities Waste Heat: Emissions from vehicles, industrial activities, and air conditioning units contribute to higher urban temperatures Energy Consumption: Increased energy use in urban areas generates additional heat Factors lead to Heat island 7. Weather and Geography Climate: Local climate conditions, such as humidity and wind patterns, can influence the intensity of the UHI effect Geographical Features: The presence of water bodies and topography can affect heat distribution in urban areas  Result of Urban Heat Island Effect The Urban Heat Island (UHI) effect can lead to several significant consequences, impacting both the environment and human health.  Result of Urban Heat Island Effect 1. Increased Energy Consumption Higher Cooling Demand: Elevated temperatures in urban areas lead to increased use of air conditioning, which raises energy consumption and utility costs.  Result of Urban Heat Island Effect 2. Health Impacts Heat-Related Illnesses: Higher temperatures can cause heat stress, heat exhaustion, and heat strokes, particularly affecting vulnerable populations such as the elderly and children.  Result of urban heat island effect 3. Environmental Effects Altered Weather Patterns: The UHI effect can influence local weather patterns, potentially increasing the frequency and intensity of thunderstorms. Water Quality Degradation: Warmer temperatures can affect water bodies, leading to thermal pollution and impacting aquatic life.  Result of urban heat island effect 4. Economic Impacts Increased Energy Costs: Higher energy consumption for cooling can lead to increased operational costs for businesses and households. Infrastructure Strain: The additional demand for cooling can affect electrical grids, leading to potential power cut.  Result of urban heat island effect 5. Social and Livability Issues Reduced Comfort: Higher urban temperatures can reduce the overall comfort and livability of cities, making outdoor activities less enjoyable. Differences in Impact: Low-income communities often experience more severe effects due to less access to cooling and green spaces. Solutions Solutions 1- Increasing Green Spaces a) Parks and Gardens: Creating more parks and gardens can help cool the air through evapotranspiration. b) Urban Forests: Planting trees along streets and in public spaces reduces surface temperatures. Solutions 2. Cool Roofs and Pavements Reflective Materials: Using materials that reflect more sunlight and absorb less heat for roofs and pavements can significantly reduce temperatures. Green Roofs: Installing vegetation on rooftops helps insulate buildings and cool the surrounding air. Solutions 3. Improving Urban Design Building Orientation: Designing buildings to maximize natural ventilation and shade can reduce the need for air conditioning. Solutions 4. Enhancing Water Features Fountains and Ponds: Incorporating water features in urban areas can help cool the air through evaporation. Rain Gardens: These help manage rainwater and provide cooling benefits. Solutions 5. Promoting Sustainable Transportation Public Transit: Encouraging the use of public transportation reduces the number of heat-generating vehicles on the road. Biking and Walking: Developing infrastructure for biking and walking can reduce vehicle emissions and heat. Solutions 7. Community Engagement Awareness Campaigns: Educating the public about the UHI effect and ways to mitigate it can lead to community-driven solutions. Incentives: Providing incentives for green building practices and the use of cool materials can encourage widespread adoption. Solutions 8- Increasing shades Traditional architecture in hot countries has often made use of arcades, colonnades, pergolas and awnings, Increasing Shade and natural landscape in urban areas Plant trees and vegetation which lower surface and air temperatures by providing shade and cooling. This will lower down the overall temperatures in the surroundings and lower heat island effect Solutions 6. Energy Efficiency Efficient Buildings: Improving the energy efficiency of buildings reduces the heat generated by air conditioning units. Renewable Energy: Using renewable energy sources can reduce the overall heat output from power generation.  Understanding and addressing the Urban Heat Island effect is crucial for creating sustainable and livable urban environments. By implementing effective mitigation strategies, cities can reduce their temperatures, improve air quality, and enhance the well- being of their residents.  Case Study for Existing Solutions Isolated roofs in Malaysia Green Roofs in Chicago, USA  Case Study for Existing Solutions Urban Forests in Melbourne, Water Features in Singapore Australia  Case Study for Existing Solutions Sustainable Transportation in Cool Pavements in Los Angeles, USA Copenhagen, Denmark Associate Prof. / Suzan Ali A. Mustafa – ZU  UNIVERSITY OF TABUK COLLEGE OF ARTS AND DESIGN DEPARTMENT OF INTERIOR DESIGN Green Building Systems ADID 485 PREPARED BY: PROF. SUZAN ALI Main Green Rating Systems Categories Material conservation and Water Efficiency Energy efficiency Sustainable sites resource efficiency Indoor location and Planning and Environmental Innovation transportation design Quality Second Category Energy efficiency Energy efficiency: Energy efficiency means Using less energy to do the same amount of work.  Key Concepts for Energy efficiency 1.Energy Conversion Efficiency: Measures how well energy is converted from one form to another. For example, a high-efficiency LED light bulb converts more electricity into light compared to a glowing bulb. 2.System Efficiency: Focuses on optimizing entire systems rather than individual components. For example, improving the insulation of a building reduces the need for heating and cooling. 3.Behavioral Changes: Encouraging energy-saving behaviors, such as turning off lights when not in use or using public transportation, can significantly reduce energy consumption. Benefits of Energy Efficiency Cost Savings: Reduces energy bills for consumers and businesses. Environmental Impact: Lowers greenhouse gas emissions and reduces the carbon footprint. Energy Security: Decreases dependence on imported fuels and enhances energy independence. Challenges Initial Costs: Upfront investment in energy-efficient technologies can be high. Awareness: Lack of awareness and information about the benefits and methods of energy efficiency.  How do we use our energy? KSA energy consumption in 2021 agricultural other government 2% 4% 13% Residential 47% commercial 15% industrial 19% Where we use energy is where we can save energy Energy and Energy Services Improving energy efficiency is essential for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, lowering operational costs, and promoting sustainability ☺ Greenhouse gas emissions Greenhouse gas emissions refer to the release of gases into the Earth’s atmosphere that trap heat, contributing to the greenhouse effect and global warming. These emissions result from human activities such as electricity generation, transportation, industry, agriculture, and deforestation Reducing greenhouse gas emissions is crucial for mitigating climate change and its impacts on the environment and human health The primary greenhouse gases include: Carbon dioxide (CO₂): Mainly produced by burning fossil fuels like coal, oil, and natural gas Methane (CH₄): Emitted during the production and transport of coal, oil, and natural gas, as well as from livestock and other agricultural practices Nitrous oxide (N₂O): Released from agricultural and industrial activities, as well as during the combustion of fossil fuels and solid waste Fluorinated gases: Synthetic gases used in various industrial applications, which have a high global warming potential  How can we reduce greenhouse gas emissions? 1. Transition to Renewable Energy Switching from fossil fuels to renewable energy can significantly reduce emissions. These sources generate electricity without releasing greenhouse gases 2. Improve Energy Efficiency Enhancing energy efficiency in homes, buildings, and industries can lower energy consumption. Simple actions like using LED bulbs, insulating homes, and using energy- efficient appliances can make a big difference 3. Adopt Sustainable Transportation Reducing reliance on fossil fuel-powered vehicles by using public transportation, biking, walking, or driving electric vehicles can cut emissions from the transportation sector  How can we reduce greenhouse gas emissions? 4. Promote Sustainable Agriculture and Forestry Practices such as reforestation, afforestation, and sustainable farming can help absorb CO₂ from the atmosphere. 5. Reduce, Reuse, Recycle Minimizing waste by recycling and reusing products can lower emissions from waste management and production processes 6. Support Climate Policies Advocating for and supporting policies that aim to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. 7. Increase Public Awareness Educating and encouraging others to adopt sustainable practices Renewable Energy It is energy that has been derived from earth’s natural resources that are not finite or exhaustible. Renewable energy is an alternative to the traditional energy that relies on fossil fuels, and it tends to be much less harmful to the environment. Renewable Energy 1- Solar Energy: Can be generated on-site This is produced from the sun using photovoltaic (PV) panels or solar thermal systems. Solar energy can be used for electricity generation, heating, and even cooling  Renewable Energy 2- Wind Energy Wind farms capture the energy of wind flow by using turbines and converting it into electricity. - Wind energy must be transported via transition lines, leading to higher costs. - Although wind turbines produce very little pollution, some cities oppose them since they dominate skylines and generate noise. - Wind turbines also threaten local wildlife like birds.  Renewable Energy 3- Hydropower (Hydroelectric) Energy Water flows through the DAM’s turbines to produce electricity Although hydroelectric power does not pollute the air, it disrupts waterways and negatively affects the animals that live in them, changing water levels, currents, and migration paths for many fish and other freshwater ecosystems.  Renewable Energy 4- Geothermal Energy Geothermal heat is trapped beneath the earth’s crust from the formation of the Earth billion years ago. This heat can be captured and used to produce geothermal energy by using steam that comes from the heated water pumping below the surface, which then rises to the top and can be used to operate a turbine. Cost plays a major factor Affected by earthquakes  Renewable Energy 5- Algae Energy also known as Algal biofuel Advantages Algae cultivation can help reduce carbon dioxide levels as algae absorb CO2 during photosynthesis. Algae can be grown in wastewater, helping to clean the water by absorbing nutrients and contaminants Disadvantages: - High production costs, - It needs large-scale cultivation systems, - The complexity of extracting and processing the oil example of buildings with Algae Energy BIQ House, Hamburg, Germany The BIQ House is the world’s first building uses microalgae within its façade to generate heat and biomass. The algae grow in glass panels on the building’s exterior, providing shading and thermal insulation while producing renewable energy  Types of building according to energy efficiency 1. Conventional buildings 2. Energy-Efficient Buildings These buildings use less energy to perform the same tasks as conventional buildings. They incorporate energy-saving technologies and practices. 3. Net-zero energy buildings A building that produces as much energy as it consumes over a year. 4. Positive Energy Buildings Positive Energy Buildings (PEBs) are designed to produce more energy than they consume over the course of a year, primarily through the use of renewable energy sources like solar and wind power Example of Energy-Efficient Building One Angel Square in Manchester, United Kingdom Net-zero energy building  Example of Net-zero energy building The Edge in Amsterdam, Netherlands o Uses Solar Panels that generate the building’s energy needs o LED lighting, smart thermostats, and an advanced cooling system o Smart Technology as sensors that monitor occupancy and adjust lighting and temperature o Sustainable Design: maximizes natural light and ventilation, reducing the need for artificial lighting and mechanical cooling  Example of Positive Energy Buildings (PEB) Powerhouse Brattørkaia, Norway. This building is designed to generate more energy than it consumes over its entire lifecycle, including the energy used for the production and disposal of its building materials Solar Energy: The building is equipped with extensive solar panels that generate surplus energy, which is then supplied to neighboring buildings and electric buses. High-performance insulation Sustainable Construction: fossil fuel-free, ensuring no direct carbon emissions during the building process Innovative Design: natural ventilation and optimized building orientation to maximize energy efficiency Energy-Efficient Lighting and Ventilation LED Lighting LED lights are highly energy-efficient, lasting longer and consuming less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs. They also produce less heat, contributing to a more comfortable indoor environment. Natural Ventilation Designing for natural ventilation, such as cross-ventilation or operable windows, brings fresh air into the space, reducing the need for mechanical ventilation systems and improving air quality. Smart Controls Smart lighting controls allow for automated adjustments based on occupancy and daylight levels, further reducing energy consumption and optimizing lighting conditions. The Energy Efficiency category focuses on: Reducing energy Enhancing energy Incorporating renewable consumption, performance, energy sources. How to Make a building energy efficient? As an Interior Designer 1. Insulation and Airtightness Insulation: Proper insulation in walls, roofs, and floors helps maintain indoor temperatures, reducing the need for heating and cooling Airtightness: Sealing gaps and cracks prevents air leaks, which can lead to energy loss 2. Efficient Windows and Doors Double or Triple Glazing: These windows provide better insulation compared to single-pane windows Weatherstripping: Adding weatherstripping to doors and windows can further reduce drafts 3. Energy-Efficient Lighting and Appliances LED Lighting: LEDs use less energy and last longer than traditional bulbs Energy Star Appliances: These appliances are designed to use less energy without sacrificing performance 4. Renewable Energy Sources Solar Panels: Installing solar panels can generate electricity and reduce reliance on the grid Heat Pumps: These are efficient for heating and cooling, using less energy than traditional systems 5. Smart Building Technologies Smart Thermostats: These devices can optimize heating and cooling schedules based on occupancy and preferences Building Automation Systems: These systems can control lighting, HVAC, and other systems to maximize efficiency  6. Behavioral Changes Energy Awareness: Educating occupants about energy- saving practices, such as turning off lights and appliances when not in use, can make a significant difference Implementing these strategies can help create a more energy-efficient building, leading to lower energy bills and a reduced environmental footprint. 7- Optimization of using natural daylight Benefits of Energy Efficiency Strategies Environmental Impact: Reduced greenhouse gas emissions and reliance on fossil fuels. Economic Benefits: Lower operational costs and increased savings over the building’s lifecycle. Social Benefits: Improved indoor environmental quality and occupant comfort. Resilience: Enhanced resilience to energy price fluctuations and supply disruptions. Challenges and Considerations Initial Costs: Higher upfront costs for energy-efficient technologies and systems. Technical Complexity: Integrating advanced energy systems and renewable technologies. Behavioral Change: Encouraging occupants to adopt energy-saving practices. Regulatory Support: Need for supportive policies and incentives from local governments. Retrofitting existing buildings for energy saving A building doesn’t have to be new to be efficient. Building owners are retrofitting buildings, converting them into archetypes of sustainability. A building can often be retrofitted for a lower cost than a new building. To accomplish this it's important to review the heating and air conditioning system, as well as lighting. Example of Retrofitting existing buildings for energy saving Public housing in Holland Outside insulation Solar cells  When aiming to make a building energy efficient, what are the things you have to avoid that can weaken your efforts?  1. Poor Insulation and Airtightness Inadequate Insulation can lead to significant energy loss. Ignoring Airtightness: Failing to seal gaps and cracks can result in drafts and energy inefficiency 2. Incorrect Window and Door Installation Using single-pane windows instead of double or triple glazing can lead to heat loss Improper Sealing windows and doors properly can allow air leaks 3. Inefficient HVAC Systems Oversized or Undersized HVAC Systems can lead to inefficiency and higher energy costs 4. Lack of Maintenance: Neglecting regular maintenance can reduce the efficiency of HVAC systems 5. Ignoring Renewable Energy Options Not Considering Solar Panels Not using heat pumps for heating and cooling can result in higher energy consumption 6. Poor Ventilation Combining Ventilation with Heating/Cooling Ductwork This can lead to inefficiencies and poor indoor air quality Not Venting Kitchens and Bathrooms Properly: This can cause moisture problems and reduce energy efficiency 7. Behavioral Oversights Lack of Occupant Education: Not educating occupants about energy- saving practices can negate many efficiency measures Ignoring Simple Behavioral Changes: Small actions like turning off lights and appliances when not in use can make a big difference Associate Prof. / Suzan Ali A. Mustafa – ZU