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Architecture has been adapting to the environment for so long, both past and present. And in the future, sustainability should be the top priority in any infrastructure. It should have sustainable elements, whether a residential, commercial, or institutional building. Architecture takes inspiration from sustainability and apply them to potential projects.
How does architecture improve sustainable living? It improves by implementing the environmental design with low-impact building materials. The process involves eco-friendly construction methods. As a result, there will be less pollution. In the long term, it reduces greenhouse emissions to offset climate change.
What Is Sustainable Living?
Sustainable living is reducing the amount of impact on the environment. It is an individual and collaborative practice that offsets climate change. This approach lessens the carbon footprint and lessens environmental damage. As a result, using natural resources gets minimized and reduces carbon footprint.
The practice encourages people to minimize human and environmental interaction. Its goal is to achieve zero energy balance for the Earth. However, while it is a big responsibility, it is achievable through small steps. How you interact with the environment plays a role in sustainable living.
6 Ways Architecture Can Improve Sustainable Living
Here are the ways architecture improves sustainable living:
Using Renewable Energy - Architecture now includes renewable energy. You can now opt to install solar panels, wind turbines, or geothermal systems in your homes. As a result, it reduces reliance on fossil fuels and the electric grid.
While the costs are higher initially, in the long run, you lessen the consumption. Any consumption affects the environment. In contrast to more conventional methods of architectural production, renewable energy encourages less environmental impact.
Implementing Local Materials - The materials can determine the scale of impact in any project. For example, local materials rely on low-impact methods, and it does not obstruct. Local materials adapt to the environment they are applied to. Not only do you help the environment, but you also support local communities in the process by supporting their livelihood. As a result, it is a win-win situation for all sides.
Following Native Landscaping - Geography can change a building’s design. Consider the natural resources such as trees, grass, and water native to the area. Planting trees in architectural design acts as natural roofing for sunlight and heat. With more trees in use, it lessens the heat inside the structure, and it will not alter the site’s natural ecosystem. As a result, there will be cooler temperatures annually.
Harvesting Rainwater - Freshwater is becoming a scarce resource. By harvesting rainwater, it reduces damage to the environment. The process of harvesting rainwater involves a purifier so residents can wash or bathe with the water. An architect can also include rain screens, gutters, and slopes to move rainwater into a harvesting system.
Any construction professional can also reduce the moisture levels of masonry and bricks to preserve the materials. Doing so decreases damage and enhances a structure’s longevity. In addition, moisture management paired with harvesting systems reduce runoff and saves ecosystems.
Building Green Spaces - Any architectural firm would want to add building green spaces as a project under their roster. Whether small-scale or master-planned, green spaces are essential in any architectural design.
Architecture can include green spaces so people can grow their food. Having this opportunity makes people aware of their carbon footprint. Green spaces can apply anywhere, even down to the smallest corner.
Regulating Waste Management - Managing waste is part of sustainability. With architecture, residents and architectural firms can implement composting, recycling, or reusing usable materials. For example, organic waste can go to one composting site to feed the available green spaces. Any waste would also be for recycling, such as water for the bathroom. Proper waste management reduces carbon footprints for environmental preservation.
Plan For Sustainable Living With APL Architects
Sustainable living, along with master-planned architecture, can improve your living experience. It involves renewable energy, regulating waste management, and using green spaces. You adapt to the landscape and harvest resources like rainwater and food. In the long run, you help reduce the effects of climate change.
APL Architects is an architectural firm spearheaded by Philip Lu. At APL Architects, we believe that eco-living is the future of architecture, and we follow sustainable practices for our projects. The firm offers design and consultancy services for the sustainability you want. Contact us with the experts today!