Green buildings, also known as sustainable or environmentally friendly buildings, are structures that are designed, constructed, and operated to minimise their impact on the environment and promote resource efficiency, energy conservation, and occupant well-being. The goal of green buildings is to create structures that are more sustainable, reduce energy consumption, and contribute to a healthier and more environmentally conscious living or working environment. 

Key features of green buildings include:

• Energy Efficiency:

• • • Green buildings focus on reducing energy consumption through the use of energy-efficient appliances, lighting, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems.
    • The integration of renewable energy sources such as solar panels and wind turbines helps generate on-site clean energy.

• Water Efficiency:

• • • Green buildings implement water-efficient technologies, fixtures, and landscaping to minimise water consumption.
    • Technologies such as rainwater harvesting and greywater recycling are often employed to make more efficient use of water resources.

• Materials and Resources:

• • • Sustainable materials, often sourced locally, are used to minimise the environmental impact of construction.
    • Recycling and reusing materials, as well as implementing waste reduction strategies, contribute to the conservation of resources.

• Indoor Environmental Quality:

• • • Green buildings prioritise indoor air quality by using low-emission materials, proper ventilation systems, and air purification systems.
    • Natural lighting and efficient lighting systems are incorporated to create a healthy and comfortable indoor environment.

• Site Selection and Design:

• • • Careful consideration is given to site selection to minimise disruption to ecosystems and maximise energy efficiency.
    • Landscape design may include features such as green roofs and permeable surfaces to manage stormwater runoff.

• Innovation and Technology:

• • • Green buildings often incorporate innovative technologies and design strategies to enhance sustainability.
    • Smart building systems and automation can optimise energy use and enhance the overall performance of the building.

• Certification and Standards:

• • • Various green building certification programs, such as LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design), BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method), and others, provide standards and guidelines for sustainable construction and operation.

• Occupant Health and Well-being:

• • • Green buildings aim to create environments that promote the health and well-being of occupants through factors such as improved air quality, natural light, and ergonomic design.

• Life Cycle Assessment:

• • • Green building practices consider the entire lifecycle of a building, including construction, operation, maintenance, and eventual demolition or deconstruction.
    • Assessing the environmental impact at each stage helps make informed decisions for sustainability.

• Community and Social Impact:

• • Green buildings may contribute to the overall well-being of the community by considering social aspects such as accessibility, community engagement, and the creation of green spaces.