With greater understanding of and concern for environmental sustainability, the idea of green architecture has become a feature of modern society. Also referred to as sustainable or eco-friendly architecture, it is an approach to designing buildings to minimize their environmental impact. Green architects design buildings considering energy efficiency such as the use of solar panels and rainwater harvesting systems, resource conservation, use of renewable materials, and the overall ecological footprint of the structure. Green architecture seeks to create buildings that contribute positively to the environment and promote long-term sustainability. Green architects incorporate green spaces as much as possible in the design. Thus, green architecture strives for harmony between sustainability and the physical, emotional and mental well-being of the inhabitants of the space.
Origin of the term and application
While green architecture is used more commonly in modern society, the practice of sustainable building which took into consideration energy efficiency, natural resources for building materials and the well-being of the occupants predates our century. Some religious institutions, including houses of worship, have made a commitment to build new buildings and retrofit existing ones based on green architecture principles. Some religious institutions, including houses of worship, have made a commitment to build new buildings and retrofit existing ones based on green architecture principles.
The use of natural stone to construct thick walls, window design, roof ventilation and underground air-cooling chambers to regulate indoor air temperature and ventilation were already used in the 19th century. The invention of air conditioners paved the way for the use of cheap synthetic building materials, and increased use of glass and steel. Green architecture is raising awareness about broader environmental implications of building projects and the necessity to adopt practices that mitigate the ecological impact of the built environment.
