Sustainability is the ability to meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. Although it frequently refers to environmental protection, it can also be used to discuss economic and social problems. It entails making decisions and taking steps to create a better future for everyone, such as preserving the environment, advancing social justice, and guaranteeing economic prosperity for all.
Sustainable design considers social, economic, and environmental factors. This comprises making use of materials and methods that have no negative impact on the environment, promoting energy efficiency and conservation, creating living spaces for inhabitants, and boosting the neighborhood's overall well-being. Planning buildings that might serve a variety of purposes in the future is also included, as is making the best use of available resources and producing the least amount of waste during both construction and operation.
In my opinion, several concepts and ideas reflect sustainability and promote a sustainable built environment. For example:
Energy savings and efficiency through the use of natural light, solar panels, and hybrid ventilation systems. The SDE4 Building in Singapore is a good example of this strategy. SED4 is equipped with the PV on the rooftop and uses a cool air impulsion system to maintain the temperature at the thermal conform to reduce the energy using
Rainwater harvesting and gray water recycling: The Marina Barrage is a good example of how the water is harvested by a green roof and it has its town grey water recycling system to use back in domestic water use.
Use sustainable building materials, such as bamboo structures. The Vo Trong Nghia wind and water coffee in Vietnam is a good example of how architects use bamboo in large-span structures. Bamboo is considered the “steel of 21 century” and is sustainable, easy to harvest, and durable
Designing rooftop public areas and roof gardens to promote biodiversity and food security. The Farming kindergarten in Binh Duong, Vietnam is a good example of how architects have incorporated urban farming and a green roof garden for a multi-purpose playcourt in a kindergarten.
Use the green façade to reduce heat island effects: The Singaporean firm WOHA is famous for the use of the green wall and green façade in their design to reduce the heat island effects, reduce the solar energy on the surface and enhance the urban biodiversity.
According to me, a sustainable building is one that uses both active and passive design strategies to reduce energy consumption, is tailored to its site, protects and enhances the natural environment around it, and offers a comfortable and healthy living or working environment for its occupants.
