ROLE OF SUSTAINABILITY IN BUILDINGS

Sustainable buildings are those that can be an asset for many years to come. Buildings have potential lives spanning hundreds of years. What is being built now could affect the next ten generations. Not to build for maximum energy, water, materials and waste efficiency is to place an unacceptable burden on future generations.

Sustainable technologies are available, sustainable design strategies have been implemented, and studies have proved that these approaches can contribute positively to reducing the ecological footprint of a society. There aren’t any practical or ethical reasons for not designing and building sustainable buildings.

Buildings that are loved become part of the community’s own culture, have long lives and are economically sustainable. The concept of economic sustainability is well understood among architects, successful buildings make money, sell quickly, command more rent, have long lives or help induce the regeneration of an area. Also, making a positive contribution to the community environment means addressing more than just practical requirements, it means addressing the aesthetic and psychological needs of people.