An Exploration of Green Engineering in Building Design

In the academic year 2023, I conducted the following research as part of the science club to design a sustainable low-cost model for renewable energy systems, including a functional green building prototype featuring eco-conscious HVAC systems.

Green Engineering has gained a lot of importance in the status quo, due to the detrimental effects of infrastructural development, and the usage of non-renewable energy sources. Green Engineering is a design approach that uses Engineering principles, science and technology that focus on improving the environment and human health. Eco-friendly and energy-efficient building design is at the heart of sustainable and green real estate. This research paper goes on the ultimate methods which use processes and products to their full potential, use systems analysis to minimize hazardous risks to mother earth, and integrating environmental impact assessment tools.

There are a number of design principles and technologies that are used to make buildings more sustainable and energy-efficient. Let us first analyze the factors effecting the sustainability of a building. The materials that are used in constructing a building needs to be eco-friendly. When we use recycled material for this purpose, that may be locally acquired to reduce transportation costs and carbon dioxide emissions, it is ensured to no ‘specific’ material is depleted for infrastructure development. The material must have a few restrictions, however. It must be non-toxic, and not susceptible to corrosive damages, and insulates heat and electricity. Furthermore, Energy loss prevention is the key aspect that guides green design. Specialized materials must be used in different applications throughout the building. For example, in Sound Prevention, utilizing high-quality insulation materials in walls, floors, and ceilings reduce the transmission of sound between different spaces. Considering acoustic insulation materials such as glasswool and polyester that are specifically designed to absorb or block sound waves. Installing double or triple glazed windows provides additional sound insulation. The air gap between the layers of glass helps dampen sound transmission. Incorporation of soft materials such as carpets, curtains, and acoustic panels in interior spaces to absorb sound and reduce reverberation is also recommended for office and household spaces. There involves a lot of strategy in the design process too. The layout of rooms must be planed such that common areas strategically minimize the direct transmission of sound. There must be heavy consideration of the placement of noise-producing elements and activities.

Additionally, we shall look at the major energy loses in a system: heat and light. Loss in the form of electricity can be prevented by being conscious of any physical leaks in wiring systems. Then, usage of energy-efficient lighting technologies such as LED bulbs, which not only consume less electricity but also have a longer lifespan, reducing the need for frequent replacements, should be taken in use. Select building materials with high thermal resistance and energy efficiency. This includes windows with low U-values and thermal mass materials that can help regulate indoor temperatures. U-value, or thermal transmittance, is a measurement of how quickly heat passes through a material or structure. Installing energy-efficient windows with low U-values and considering double or triple glazing reduce heat loss. Choosing doors with proper seals to prevent drafts and energy loss. Implementation of shading devices, such as overhangs or blinds control the amount of sunlight entering the building. This helps reduce the need for cooling during warm weather. Moreover, Use Energy Recovery Ventilation systems to recover heat from exhaust air and transfer it to incoming fresh air. This helps to pre-heat or pre-cool incoming air, reducing the energy needed for conditioning. The major loss in energy and the highest polluting agent are the HVAC systems installed in every building. HVAC or Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning is the use of various technologies to control the temperature, humidity, and purity of the air in an enclosed space. Its goal is to provide thermal comfort and acceptable indoor air quality. Manufacturing it into a type of renewable energy system can help to improve green building performance by reducing the need for fossil fuels. It uses solar panels to collect and store energy from the sun and then uses that energy to power your building’s heating and cooling systems. Regular maintenance is also crucial to ensure optimal performance.