JSS ACADEMY OF TECHNICAL EDUCATION, BANGALORE

DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING

Subject: GREEN BUILDING

Subject code: 21CV485

Activity Report on
Green Buildings, Energy efficiency and Embodied energy
in materials

SL. NO. NAME USN SIGNATURE

1 DHARSHAN R 1JS21CV012

Semester: 4th
Branch: CIVIL ENGINEERING
Academic Year: 2022 – 2023

Marks Awarded (Max. Marks 20)

Signature of Faculty

UNDER THE GUIDANCE OF:

Mrs. ARCHANA J
ASSISTANT PROFESSOR
DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING JSSATE-B
Contents:
 Definition of Green Building
 Features of Green Building
 Necessity of Green Building
 Benefits of Green Buildings
 The major energy efficient areas for Green Buildings
 Embodied Energy in materials of Green Buildings
 Introduction

Green Building (also known as green construction or sustainable building)

refers to both a structure and the application of processes that are
environmentally responsible and resource-efficient throughout a building's
life-cycle: from planning to design, construction, operation, maintenance,
renovation, and demolition.
Green buildings, also known as sustainable buildings, are designed to reduce
their impact on the environment through energy efficiency, water
conservation, and the use of sustainable materials. They aim to minimize
waste, lower energy consumption, and create healthier living spaces. This is
achieved through various means such as using renewable energy sources like
solar panels, incorporating energy-efficient windows and insulation, using
low-VOC and non-toxic materials, and integrating systems for water
recycling and waste management.
The design often considers the building's entire life cycle, including
construction, operation, and eventual demolition, to minimize its
environmental impact. Green buildings frequently make use of natural light
and ventilation, incorporate green spaces, and may even include features like
green roofs or vertical gardens. These buildings are often certified by
environmental assessment tools like LEED (Leadership in Energy and
Environmental Design) or BREEAM (Building Research Establishment
Environmental Assessment Method).
A 'green' building is a building that, in its design, construction or operation,
reduces or eliminates negative impacts, and can create positive impacts, on
our climate and natural environment. Green buildings preserve precious
natural resources and improve our quality of life.

Definition of Green Building

Green building is the practice of creating structures and using processes that
are environmentally responsible and resource-efficient throughout a
building's life-cycle from siting to design, construction, operation,
maintenance, renovation and deconstruction.
This practice expands and complements the classical building design
concerns of economy, utility, durability, and comfort. Green building is also
known as a sustainable or high-performance building.

Features of Green Buildings:

Green Buildings are designed to reduce the overall impact on human health
and the natural environment by efficiently using resources and reducing
waste, pollution, and environmental degradation.
Here are some key features of green buildings in detail:
 Energy Efficiency
1.Solar Panels: Utilizing solar energy to generate electricity.
2.LED Lighting: Energy-efficient lighting that consumes less electricity.
3.Energy Star Appliances: Use of certified energy-efficient appliances.

 Water Efficiency
1. Rainwater Harvesting: Collecting rainwater for non-potable uses.
2. Low-Flow Fixtures: Faucets and toilets designed to use less water.

 Sustainable Materials
1.Recycled Materials: Use of post-consumer materials for construction.
2.Local Sourcing: Materials sourced from nearby locations to reduce
transportation emissions.
3.Bamboo or Cork Floors: Renewable materials for flooring.

 Indoor Air Quality

1.Low VOC Paint: Paint that emits fewer volatile organic compounds.
2.Natural Ventilation: Use of windows and vents to reduce reliance on
HVAC systems.
 Waste Management
1.Composting: Organic waste is composted for landscaping.
2.Recycling Facilities: Dedicated bins for various types of recyclable
waste.

 Smart Building Systems

1.Automated Lighting: Lights turn off automatically when a room is
unoccupied.
2.Smart Thermostats: Adjust temperature based on occupancy and
weather conditions.

 Land Use
1.Green Roofs: Rooftops covered with vegetation to absorb rainwater and
provide insulation.
2.Native Landscaping: Use of local plants that require less water and
maintenance.

 Transportation
1.Bike Racks: Encouraging cycling over car use.
2.Electric Vehicle Charging: Providing charging stations for electric
vehicles.

 Community and Lifestyle

1. Fitness Amenities: Encouragement for physical activity.
2. Community Gardens: Spaces for residents to grow their own food.

These features contribute to the overall sustainability and efficiency of green

buildings, reducing both costs and environmental impact.
NECESSITY OF GREEN BUILDINGS:

Necessity for green buildings can be explored in greater depth through the
following aspects:

Environmental Benefits:
1.Reduced Carbon Footprint: Green buildings typically use sustainable
materials and energy-efficient technologies, thus emitting fewer
greenhouse gases compared to traditional buildings.
2.Water Efficiency: Through the use of technologies like low-flow toilets
and greywater recycling, green buildings are often much more efficient in
their use of water.
3.Waste Minimization: Green buildings promote recycling and the use of
materials that are sustainably sourced, reducing waste sent to landfills.
4.Biodiversity and Ecosystems: Sustainable architecture can include green
spaces that support local ecosystems rather than disrupting them.

Economic Benefits:
1.Energy Savings: The use of energy-efficient appliances and insulation
techniques can significantly reduce utility bills.
2.Long-term Savings: Although the initial investment might be higher,
green buildings often result in long-term savings due to lower operational
costs.
3.Increased Property Value: Properties that are certified as green can
attract a premium in the real estate market.

Social Benefits:
1.Improved Health: Better indoor air quality, natural lighting, and thermal
comfort can improve the well-being of occupants.
 2.Community Development: Building green can be a part of broader
initiatives to make communities more sustainable, inclusive, and attractive
places to live.

Regulatory Drivers:
1.Compliance: As governments become more environmentally conscious,
regulations are likely to be enacted that may make green building practices
a requirement rather than an option.

Innovation:
1.Technological Advancements: The demand for green buildings can
drive innovation in construction methods and materials, making
sustainable options more accessible and effective over time.

Given the escalating issues related to climate change, resource scarcity, and
social well-being, the necessity for green buildings is becoming increasingly
apparent. They offer a multi-faceted approach to tackling a range of
challenges we face today.

Fig.1 Sustainability of Green Buildings

Benefits of Green Buildings:

 Environmental Benefits:
1.Reduced Energy Consumption: Green buildings often incorporate solar
panels, efficient heating, and cooling systems, which lower energy use.
2.Water Efficiency: Features like rainwater harvesting and low-flow
plumbing fixtures help in water conservation.
3.Waste Reduction: Efficient waste management systems encourage
recycling and reduce landfill waste.
4.Biodiversity: Landscaping often uses native plants, promoting local flora
and fauna.
5.Sustainable Materials: Green buildings use recycled, reusable, or
sustainable materials, reducing environmental impact.

 Economical Benefits:
1.Lower Operating Costs: Energy-efficient systems lead to reduced utility
bills.
2.Higher Property Value: Green certifications often increase the market
value of a building.
3.Tax Incentives: Some jurisdictions offer tax benefits for green building
practices.
4. Long-term Savings: Durable materials and systems require less frequent
replacement, offering long-term savings.
5.Attracts Tenants: Environmentally conscious tenants are more likely to
choose green buildings, reducing vacancy rates.

 Health Benefits:
1.Indoor Air Quality: Advanced HVAC systems and non-toxic materials
improve air quality inside the building.
2.Natural Light: Design often incorporates more windows, boosting
natural light and thereby improving mood and productivity.
 3.Noise Reduction: Effective insulation reduces external noise, creating a
healthier living and working environment.

 Social Benefits:
1.Community Building: Green spaces and common areas encourage social
interaction among residents.
2.Educational Impact: Green buildings often serve as examples for
sustainability, raising awareness and educating the public.
3.Job Creation: The need for specialized skills in green construction
creates job opportunities.
4.Improved Quality of Life: The collective benefits contribute to a better,
healthier lifestyle for inhabitants.

By addressing a multitude of factors, green buildings make a positive impact

across various aspects of life and the environment.

Fig. 2 Green Architecture

The Major Energy Efficient Araes for Green Buildings:

Green Buildings aim to be more energy-efficient and sustainable. Here are

some major areas where energy efficiency can be optimized:

 Insulation
A well-insulated building reduces the need for heating and cooling, saving
energy. Materials like foam, fibreglass, or cellulose can effectively
insulate walls, roofs, and floors.

 Windows and Doors

Energy-efficient windows and doors prevent heat from escaping in winter
and entering in summer. Double or triple glazing and low-emissivity
(Low-E) coatings are some options.

 HVAC Systems
Energy-efficient heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC)
systems can drastically cut down energy consumption. Variable speed
motors and programmable thermostats are some of the technologies used.

 Lighting
LED and compact fluorescent lights (CFLs) consume less electricity
compared to traditional incandescent bulbs. Smart lighting systems can
further optimise energy use.

 Energy-efficient Appliances
Energy Star-certified appliances are designed to be energy-efficient and
can significantly reduce electricity consumption.
 Renewable Energy Sources
Solar panels, wind turbines, and geothermal systems can generate
electricity on-site, reducing the need for energy from the grid.

 Water Efficiency
Low-flow faucets and fixtures, as well as water-efficient landscaping,
reduce water usage, which in turn decreases the energy required for water
heating and treatment.

 Building Materials
Using sustainable, locally-sourced materials not only reduces the
building’s carbon footprint but also can be more energy-efficient in terms
of production and transport.

 Smart Systems
Automated systems can adjust lighting, temperature, and even window
shades based on real-time conditions, thus optimising energy use.

 Passive Design
By taking advantage of natural light and airflow, passive design
minimises the need for artificial lighting and mechanical ventilation.

By addressing these areas, green buildings not only save energy but also
offer a healthier and more comfortable living or working environment.

Embodied Energy in materials of green buildings:

Embodied energy in materials refers to the total energy consumed during the
extraction, production, transportation, and installation of building materials.
In the context of green buildings, the aim is to reduce this embodied energy
as much as possible to minimize the environmental impact.

1.Extraction: Sustainable sourcing practices can lower the embodied energy.

For instance, using recycled or reclaimed materials reduces the energy
needed for initial extraction.
2.Production: Manufacturing processes can be energy-intensive. Opting for
materials that require less energy to produce, like certain types of low-carbon
concrete or engineered wood, can lower embodied energy.
3.Transportation: Locally-sourced materials minimize the energy required
for transportation. The further materials have to be transported, the higher
their embodied energy.
4.Installation: Some materials require special methods or adhesives for
installation, which can also add to the embodied energy. Simpler installation
methods or even prefabricated elements can reduce this.
5.Life-cycle Analysis: Evaluating the entire life cycle of building materials,
including their potential for recycling or reusability, can provide a more
comprehensive view of their embodied energy.
6.Certifications: Materials may be certified by organizations like LEED or
the Living Building Challenge, which assess the environmental impact,
including embodied energy.
7.Material Efficiency: Using materials efficiently by reducing waste during
construction can also lower embodied energy.
8.Alternative Materials: Innovation in building materials, like hempcrete or
bamboo, provides options that may have less embodied energy than
traditional choices like concrete or steel.

By making thoughtful choices in these areas, green buildings aim to reduce

their overall environmental impact, including the embodied energy of their
materials
Fig. 3 Key features of energy efficient Green Building

Fig. 4 Embodied Energy in Green Building

 Fig. 5 Stages of Life Cycle

Fig. 6 Embodied Energy for Different Materials

Conclusion

In conclusion, green buildings represent a pivotal evolution in the field of

architecture and construction, driven by the urgent need for sustainable and
environmentally responsible practices in the built environment. As we have
explored throughout this technical discussion, green buildings offer a
multifaceted approach to addressing pressing global challenges, including
climate change, resource depletion, and energy efficiency.
The incorporation of innovative technologies, materials, and design
principles into green building projects demonstrates a commitment to
minimizing environmental impact. From energy-efficient HVAC systems
and passive solar design to advanced insulation materials and renewable
energy integration, green buildings leverage technical expertise to
significantly reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.
Furthermore, the holistic consideration of lifecycle impacts, as exemplified
by embodied energy analysis, emphasizes the importance of evaluating the
environmental consequences of building materials and construction
processes. This rigorous evaluation not only informs material selection but
also prompts a broader reevaluation of construction practices, favoring
strategies that prioritize resource conservation and carbon reduction.
In the context of a rapidly urbanizing world, where a significant proportion
of global energy consumption and emissions originate from buildings, the
adoption of green building technologies and principles is not just a technical
choice but a moral and ecological imperative. Green buildings exemplify the
fusion of science, engineering, and design to create spaces that are not only
efficient and environmentally responsible but also healthier and more
comfortable for occupants.
As we continue to advance in our understanding of sustainable design and
construction, green buildings stand as a beacon of hope and possibility. They
showcase the potential for human ingenuity to coexist harmoniously with the
natural world, mitigating the environmental impact of urbanization while
enhancing the quality of life for people around the globe.
Reference:
 https://worldgbc.org/
 https://www.energy.gov/
 https://bregroup.com/products/breeam/
 https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Green_building