Activity 2.3.2 Green Building and Sustainable Design

Activity 2.3.
2 Green Building and Sustainable

Design
Introduction
Green building design and sustainable architecture are reshaping the practices and
products of modern construction and are providing solutions that balance
environmental, social, and economic benefits.
Climate change concerns and a sense of stewardship for the earth are motivating
the use of green building products and sustainable techniques. Energy use in
buildings is increasing and could continue to rise. By using new sustainable
methods, materials, and mechanical components, architects and engineers are able
to create structures that can curb that trend. A sustainable building design reduces
pressure on the environment by decreasing energy use, reducing the consumption
of water, and conserving and preserving natural resources as well as reducing
pollution during the life cycle of a building.
In addition to incorporating sustainable features, designers should also address

occupant needs and comfort when planning a building. Desirable work space and
living environments allow users to be more productive and comfortable. Careful
consideration must be given to natural light and interior temperatures as well as
materials that emit low levels of toxins.
In this activity you will learn about green and sustainable practices in preparation for
the design of your Affordable House. During the design process, continually consider
incorporating sustainable features into your home design.
Equipment
 Engineering notebook
 Computer with Internet access
© 2010 Project Lead The Way, Inc.
Civil Engineering and Architecture Activity 2.3.2 Green Building and Sustainable Design – Page 1
Procedure
In groups of two to three, you will learn more about green and sustainable practices
and then respond to the questions. For each statement below, describe a
reasonable action. Use the US Green Building Council (www.usgbc.org) and the
US Environmental Protection Agency (www.epa.gov) sites to begin your search, but
seek out reliable information on each topic from at least one other website source.
Be sure to cite each additional reference.
1. Rainfall falls on most parcels of property throughout the world. Describe one
method that could be used to collect this natural resource.
Website: http//_____________________________________________________
2. Describe a landscape design technique that benefits the environment.

Website: http//_____________________________________________________
3. Energy use is high in commercial buildings. What might a building designer do to

reduce energy consumption in a building?
Website: http//_____________________________________________________
4. Describe a design feature for a residential structure that would likely result in
reduced water use.
Website: http//_____________________________________________________
5. Describe an innovative construction method or technique that benefits the

environment.
Website: http//_____________________________________________________
6. During the construction cycle of the building, materials and components are
delivered to the site. List a strategy that you will use to recycle the waste
produced during the construction phase.
Website: http//_____________________________________________________
7. Describe a feature you could incorporate in a home design that would improve
indoor environmental quality.
Website: http//_____________________________________________________
8. Building sites offer natural resources that can be utilized for the life of the
building. Describe a method to use a site’s natural resources in the construction
of the structure.
Website: http//_____________________________________________________
Going Beyond
9. (Optional) Select a company name and design a logo that you might use if you
opened your own architectural design firm that illustrates a commitment to green
and sustainable design.
Conclusion Questions
1. Describe an original green and sustainable idea that you have. Choose one that
is not currently in use as far as you know.
10. Describe an improvement that you believe could be made to the building where
you live to make it greener. Explain why it is an improvement.

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Activity 2.3.

2 Green Building and Sustainable

In addition to incorporating sustainable features, designers should also address

© 2010 Project Lead The Way, Inc.

2. Describe a landscape design technique that benefits the environment.

3. Energy use is high in commercial buildings. What might a building designer do to

5. Describe an innovative construction method or technique that benefits the

© 2010 Project Lead The Way, Inc.

© 2010 Project Lead The Way, Inc.

© 2010 Project Lead The Way, Inc.

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