Statistics show that the construction sector contributes a whopping 7-8 % towards global carbon emissions . And as government policies and building regulations force compliance to achieve ambitious carbon reduction targets , every segment of the construction sector – from materials manufacturers , design professionals to developers , property owners and project managers – are seeking ways to enhance their built environment without harming the natural one .
Progressive architects , designers and builders are favouring more sustainable green building designs over previously popular styles or traditional building materials .
Savvy building materials manufacturers , such as Eva-Last , are engineering new resourceefficient , eco-friendly and enhanced building components that can contribute towards a net zero carbon site , while energy-efficiency ratings and certifications such as LEED ( Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design ) are set to become the norm .
Energy-efficiency The need to reduce our reliance on fossil fuels to power our everyday activities ( and reduce pollution that causes climate change ) has seen an emphasis on energy-efficiency and passive design principles across structures , and our appliances .
Careful consideration of the aspect or orientation of the building on site and its natural environment improves its performance parameters around energyefficiency , facilitating heating and cooling using natural light and airflow . This in turn , reduces the need for insulation , ventilation , shading or added lighting .
In addition , the use of materials with natural thermal regulation properties such as bamboo which outperforms concrete , or steel , further improves the energyefficiency of the build . Materials like Eva-Last ’ s VistaClad cladding profiles provide both an insulation barrier but also allow for building ventilation through design , simply by cladding the building ’ s façade , while decorative shading or protection from glaring sunlight can be achieved using Lifespan ’ s
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lightweight architectural beams for pergolas or screening to further enhance energy-efficiency .
Eco-friendly materials Responsibly sourced renewable and eco-friendly building materials are being specified with their carbon footprint in mind .
Everything from solar systems to rainwater harvesting , low-flow taps and drought-resistant landscaping , energy-efficient lighting to technically advanced products that conserve scarce natural resources are finding their way into modern buildings .
Resource-efficient , easily replenishable raw material inputs are replacing limited natural resources like wood with advanced composite products .
This encompasses everything that affects the energy required for lighting , heating and cooling , ventilation and indoor air quality .
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