Curious about the buzz around net-zero buildings in the construction industry? Let’s break it down:
What is a net-zero Building?
A net-zero building is designed to have zero or negative greenhouse gas emissions over its entire life-cycle. This includes:
- Impacts from operational energy and water use
- Emissions from construction and materials
- Benefits from energy exported to other users
- Advantages of reusing materials after decommissioning
Why does it matter?
- Environmental impact: The construction industry accounts for a staggering 39% of global carbon emissions. Net-zero buildings can significantly reduce this footprint.
- Market demand: There’s growing interest from clients, cities, and investors in sustainable construction.
- Global commitments: Many organizations are aligning with initiatives like the World Green Building Council’s Advancing Net Zero Commitment.
How to design net-zero buildings
To create net-zero buildings, focus on:
- Decreasing demand for virgin materials
- Reducing reliance on fossil fuels
- Incorporating circular economy principles:
- Repurpose existing buildings and materials
- Choose longer-lasting products
- Design for adaptability and reuse
- Restoring climate balance:
- Replace fossil energy with renewable sources
- Sequester carbon through materials and design
Want to dive deeper into net-zero building design and learn about tools that can help you achieve these goals?
Read the full article here: Designing net-zero buildings | One Click LCA