The resources available to us on this planet are finite; we need to treat them as finite, not an afterthought. The industrial economy would flounder without the employ of natural resources. (McLennan, 2004) We have the responsibility to consider the embodied energy of the products and materials we use, and aim to minimize the use of materials, as long as it doesn’t impede meeting a project’s goals or quality. (McLennan, 2004)
I aim to specify plumbing and lighting fixtures, and appliances that have reduced water and energy loads.
I will also endeavour to select materials either with high-recycled content, or is salvaged or reused, or when sourcing raw materials, to select minimally invasive (certified wood) and with a minimal embodied footprint. This includes understanding the process of resource extraction, the emissions of manufacturing, and transportation and assembly. It considers the maintenance requirements throughout its use (does it require a toxic cleaner or constant exhaust to reduce the effects of continuous off-gassing), and through the (potentially selective) demolition process. It means from the very beginning, considering its opportunity at the end of life. (McLennan, 2004) (Binggeli, 2013) I look forward to having a well-developed library of trusted green materials and products.
Green Wall Facade (Therapeutic Gardens, 2018)
Green Wall (Therapeutic Gardens, 2018)
The 1000th Well Certified Project by EDGE Technologies and BuroHappold (IWBI Twitter, 2019)