The construction industry significantly contributes to greenhouse gas emissions. Because of the fast climate change, many businesses are taking steps to have little to no adverse environmental effects. There is also a rise in the number of firms and people interested in investing in sustainable designs and projects that have received accreditation from the Green Building Council of Australia's (GBCA) Green Star Ratings.
What does Green Stars mean?
'Sustainability' has become a catchphrase, yet it does not automatically imply an ecologically beneficial, carbon-neutral structure. How can we tell which of our buildings is doing well?
But how exactly does it work? Each building is assigned a certified rating that considers its whole lifetime - from design and construction to refurbishment and end-of-life - and offers a baseline for success while validating project sustainability.
Management, Indoor Environment Quality, Energy, Transportation, Water, Materials, Land Use and Ecology, Emissions, and Innovation are the categories that determine the ratings, which range from 0 to 6 stars.
Obtaining Green Star certification for a project may seem difficult. The certification procedure may seem to need a significant amount of time and effort. This post will discuss easy techniques for increasing Green Star Ratings.
Use non-toxic building materials
The health of the building's occupants is improved along with the environment when non-toxic materials are used in construction. It's preferable to use paints with no or low levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) since they emit fewer gases and have a more pleasant aroma. Paints with little or no volatile organic compounds (VOCs) pose less of a threat to human health when breathed. Furthermore, one can procure eco-friendly conduits from conduit suppliers for their project's electrical wiring.
Energy-efficient lighting
LED lights are known to use less energy than conventional lighting. It is reasonable to say that an increasing number of families and businesses are moving from traditional incandescent lights to LED lights, and it is easy to see why. Its key energy-saving characteristic is that it uses around 60-90% less electricity than halogen and incandescent lights. According to research, LED lights have a decreased combustion risk, making it safer to leave them on for longer periods. In terms of environmental effects, LEDs have no mercury content as compared to mercury vapour lights and fluorescent lights, which might be problematic when the bulb/light reaches the end of its existence.
Also, read here: 5 Best Ways To Achieve A 6-Star Energy Rating
Choose windows carefully
Windows help to keep sunshine, wind, and noise out. We can keep it affordable, but having no or less sunlight, in particular, will increase power costs. This is why an increasing number of organisations are turning to Suntuitive technology, which decreases carbon footprint by offering natural passive heating via glass panes. The technology in the glass adjusts as well, tinting when necessary and remaining clear when not.
Indoor & outdoor plants
Having a green area is also a smart way to save energy since it decreases carbon dioxide levels and filters the air, needing less electricity for electric air purifiers. Tropical indoor plants, such as Peace Lily, are attractive workplace decorations that also serve another purpose: they filter the air. According to National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) studies, Peace Lily has air-cleansing capabilities since it breaks down and neutralises contaminants such as carbon monoxide, benzene, and formaldehyde.
Install tools to harvest and recycle rainwater
This not only helps conserve water but also reduces the burden on the municipal water supply. Harvesting rainwater involves collecting it from the roof or other surfaces, storing it in tanks or cisterns, and using it for non-potable purposes such as irrigation, toilet flushing, and laundry. Installing filters, first-flush diverters, and other treatment systems can ensure the water is safe for reuse. By implementing rainwater harvesting, not only does one contribute to sustainable water management, but it also helps in reducing the carbon footprint and lowering the water bills.
Minimise waste throughout the project cycle
Starting recycling activities, on the other hand, may assist in improving the Green Star Rating evaluation. Recycling programs include not just recycling single-use goods but also developing methods to decrease landfill trash from demolition, renovation, and building.
Improving your project's green star rating requires a multi-faceted approach that considers the project's environmental impact at every stage of its lifecycle. By adopting green building techniques, using energy-efficient systems, and promoting sustainable behaviour, organisations can not only achieve a higher green star rating but also contribute to a more sustainable future. With a strong commitment to sustainability and an ongoing effort to improve continuously, organisations can significantly impact the environment and promote a more sustainable future.
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