How Architecture Has Adapted to Eco-Friendly Initiatives

One of the most pressing concerns for our planet, and currently a hot topic is the state of the environment. For many, we switch on our television screens to watch the latest David Attenborough documentary and learn about the devastating impact that climate change is having around the world - yet often, once the program is over, we resume our daily lives. It is no secret that we need to take steps to fight climate change, and this is especially important in the construction and urban development industries.

Yet, although more needs to be done, many recent architectural developments use environmental change as their muse. Below, we explore some of these changes and hope that you as a consumer start following in their footsteps.

Recycled Materials

From bamboo to plastic and aggregates, there are a variety of recycled materials that are at the helm of future builds. Consuming less energy in their production, resulting in less construction waste being sent to landfill - this is meeting the need for change. Slowly, more and more buildings are being constructed with recycled materials as the eco-conscious generation starts to take precedence.

Renewable Energy

From solar panels to hydro energy and geo-thermal energy - there is a multiplicity of renewable energy sources that are being utilised for domestic and commercial use across the country. New builds are taking advantage of this by installing geothermal energy, by being built south facing, and by installing energy efficient appliances.

What’s more, if you are looking to add renewable energy sources to your home - it can dramatically cut your bills. So, not only are you making an effort to save the planet but you are also relaxing your purse strings.

Roof Gardens

Though urban development often leads to the degradation of surrounding landscapes - the development of roof gardens is evidence that these two forces can work together. Roof gardens not only are opportune spaces for socialising, but also they can support local wildlife - attracting birds and bugs to these spaces.

In addition, greenery creates beauty in these concrete buildings, making your city more verdant and resplendent than it was before!

Zero Net Energy Buildings

Zero net energy buildings is a concept where the total amount of energy that is made to create the building is then met with a high level of renewable energy on site. Meaning that it costs zero energy to make the building overall. Not only are these designed to help cut carbon emissions, but they are also constructed to help reduce our reliance on fossil fuels.

Here at Simon Levy, we are passionate about new developments, structural changes, and construction disputes. To find out more about our projects, or if you have a query for one of our chartered surveyors, simply contact us today.