Article: Designing for the Future
Many people believe that economic and environmental interests are at odds. However, research argues that this perspective of development versus conservation is not only unnecessary but also actively harmful to both goals. Indeed, our capacity to protect both thriving human communities and plentiful and healthy natural ecosystems will be crucial to achieving a sustainable future.
Even though many business sectors are making efforts to become more sustainable, the construction industry is special because it has the potential to greatly influence how these practices are implemented. This is a result of the industry's extensive usage of resources and energy.
According to the UN, ‘sustainable development’ is a concept that encompasses all types of growth that preserves current generations' needs without endangering future generations. It is also one of the central issues when it comes to protecting and regulating the environment.
A sustainable building, also referred to as green construction, is, therefore, one that uses resources sparingly and sustainably throughout all stages of its lifecycle, from siting to design and onto construction and operation. There is a negligible negative environmental impact.
A green building should ideally protect and restore the local habitat, which is essential for sustaining life, and then turn into a net exporter of resources, materials, energy, and water rather than being a net consumer. Sustainable construction and operation must ensure the healthiest, most efficient, and least disruptive use of land, water, energy, and other resources.
WSA holds that sustainable architecture and design take into account the effects on the environment, society, and economy from the beginning to the end of a building’s lifespan. It is a crucial component of the matrix that makes the circular economy possible; favourable to the public and the environment, socially accountable and therefore well received, and frequently the most cost-effective and best operational choice.