“A green building should create delight when entered, serenity and health when occupied, and regret when departed.”
Conceptually speaking, a green building is any building designed to eliminate or lower the negative impacts, on both the built and natural environment. Green buildings typically use non-toxic building materials, while the building designs are in response to the specific climatic needs.
Most importantly, green buildings are designed to have a positive impact on the natural environment as well. Even in construction and operation, these buildings focus on improving the quality of life by harnessing natural elements. Put simply – sustainability is at the heart of green building concept.
Origins of Green Building Concept
Besides, sustainability was a significant part of architectural designs in ancient India. The Vedic philosophy even lists five methods which can maximise the use of Panch Mahabhuta or the five basic elements of nature, including – Agni (Fire), Vayu (Air), Avkash (Space), Jal (Water), and Prithvi (Earth)– without causing any harm to nature.
Our ancient builders tried to create a harmony between the five elements when planning buildings and construction, a science they called Vastushastra. The science emphasised open spaces in the centre of the building to promote daylighting and cross-ventilation. Builders usually constructed kitchens in the south-east portion, which received a lower degree of sunrays to avoid high temperatures.
At the same time, ancient builders did not compromise on aesthetics or style, as evident from our rich architectural heritage. Incidentally, the forgotten traditions have witnessed a surprising revival in the emergence of ‘green’ buildings recently. But awareness around green buildings is relatively inadequate while the myths remain in abundance.
Below, we look at six myths about green buildings that you should not believe in.
Myth #1 Green Buildings Are Inefficient in Comparison to Traditional Buildings
Contrary to popular belief, ‘green’ buildings are as efficient as traditional buildings. They are made with far superior technologies and modern practices to ensure sustainable, reliable, and efficient design. Occupants also enjoy comparatively better energy-efficiency and healthier living environment in green buildings.
Moreover, the building materials and techniques employed in construction focus on optimised resource allocation and reduced construction waste. As a result, green buildings cut down operation costs significantly.
Myth #2 Green Buildings are Expensive
Perhaps the most common myth about green buildings, especially amongst the common man. But in truth, sustainability is achievable and affordable. If you consider the overall life-cycle costs, a green building does not cost more than a traditional building.
In fact, green buildings typically have a payback period of one or two years. Your initial investments will let you enjoy reduced energy costs, better indoor air quality, enhanced durability, and healthier indoors. Best of all, green buildings usually have a comparatively higher resale value.
Myth #3 Green Buildings Lack Visual Appeal
The idea of ‘green’ architecture is merely limited to building practices, principles, and methodologies. There is no specific ‘look’ or ‘feel’ to a green building. Nonetheless, most people assume green buildings look wacky and lack visual appeal.
On the contrary, occupants can choose any style or aesthetic they wish to incorporate in the building design. Like any conventional building, green buildings can be absolute head-turners, from both the outside and inside.
Myth #4 “Green” Materials are Not Easily Accessible
Unlike popular opinion, green building materials are available in abundance. Easily accessible, these materials are also affordable, costing no more than the typical building materials. Green products mostly comprise recycled materials and Agri-based products, which can cut down construction costs considerably.
However, such misconceptions continue to arise because of misinformation about green buildings. But with more awareness, the development and demand for ‘green’ raw materials will only increase. Markets for recycled content and sustainable materials will increase steadily.
Myth #5 Green Buildings are Only Trends, Not the Future
Many consider green buildings to be mere trends which arose in response to increasing environmental concerns, primarily because, green buildings became a part of the mainstream quite recently. However, the practice of building ‘green’ has been around for centuries, as exemplified by the introduction to this article.
Presently, as builders face acute resource and waste management crisis, the necessity for green buildings has only grown. Especially as the need for sustainability has increased, green buildings are gaining fast traction in India. Most importantly, as green materials become readily available in local markets, green buildings are sure to take precedence over conventional ones.
To Sum Up
Today, green buildings are becoming popular, sustainable alternatives to conventional ones and residential spaces are no exception. If you are looking for green solutions for your home or office remodels, AIS Glass should be your top pick.
We offer a wide variety of glazing solutions for energy-efficiency and premier aesthetics. Get our unique range of high-performance glass solutions, which are equally secure, stylish, and durable.
Contact us to avail an expert consultation today!