Robust and environmental friendly buildings

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

I would take this opportunity to thank my research supervisor, family and friends for their support and guidance without which this research would not have been possible.

DECLARATION

I, [type your full first names and surname here], declare that the contents of this dissertation/thesis represent my own unaided work, and that the dissertation/thesis has not previously been submitted for academic examination towards any qualification. Furthermore, it represents my own opinions and not necessarily those of the University.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

CHAPTER 3: THE BENEFITS OF MORE ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY BUILDINGS1

3.1 Introduction1

3.2 Monetary benefits of a robust and environmentally friendly building1

3.2.1 Saving in water consumption2

3.2.2 Energy saving2

3.2.3 Material savings3

3.2.4 Savings through quality environment3

3.3 Social benefits of a robust building4

3.3.1 Less usage of mineral resources4

3.3.2 Efficient energy management4

3.3.3 Materials and resources5

3.3.4 Indoor environmental quality5

3.3.5 Commissioning: operations and maintenance6

3.4 Environmental benefits6

3.4.1 Global warming7

3.4.2 Waste reduction7

3.4.3 Materials savings8

3.4.4 Impact on overall quality8

3.4.5 Commissioning: operations and maintenance9

3.5 Summary9

CHAPTER 4: THE RISKS OF NOT BUILDING ROBUST BUILDINGS12

4.1 Introduction12

4.2 Defining a robust and environmentally friendly building12

4. 3 Challenges in building a robust building13

4.3.1 Financing problem13

4.3.2 Proficiency and technical know-how13

4.3.2.1 Architect13

4.3.2.2 Supplier14

4.3.3 Threat of a natural disaster15

4.4 Other issues in the society15

4.5 Essentials of a environment friendly and robust buildings16

4.6 Design requirements for robust buildings17

4.7 Managing risk through robust building18

4.7.1 Identification18

4.7.2 Assessment of robust building18

4.7.2.1 Quantitative analysis19

4.7.2.2 Qualitative analysis19

4.7.3 Management of robust building20

4.7.3.1 Response of businessmen20

4.7.3.2 Ownership20

4.8 Summary20

REFERENCES22

APPENDICES25

CHAPTER 3: THE BENEFITS OF MORE ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY BUILDINGS

3.1 Introduction

There are no significant differences between conventional buildings and sustainable buildings, based on appearance or use. However, differences do exist when it comes to better and healthier internal environment, and operational costs. There are several benefits of eco-friendly buildings which include economic benefits, social benefits and environmental benefits.

3.2 Monetary benefits of a robust and environmentally friendly building

Increased economic benefits are the prime driver of change for sustainable buildings. In fact, relative economic advantage is the prime driver of almost all innovations. Economic benefits of sustainable buildings vary considerably, depending on the nature of the building ownership, and their full consideration is vital for promoting any sustainable design. The initial costs for sustainable buildings may be higher than conventional buildings, but substantial savings can be made through lower operating costs over the life of the sustainable building (Halfacree 2006, 309). There are no significant differences between conventional buildings and sustainable buildings, based on appearance or use. However, differences do exist when it comes to better and healthier internal environment, and operational costs. Furthermore, sustainable buildings consist of both tangible and intangible benefits. Economical benefits, which are type of intangible benefits, are not immediately seen. However, the long- term benefits are significantly higher than the conventional buildings, which primarily result from operational cost savings, decreased carbon emission, and high cost of rent and capital requirements (Edquist 1997, 112).

3.2.1 Saving in water consumption

Sustainable buildings are known to use 20 to 30% less water than the conventional infrastructure of buildings. It results in the reduction of water expenses and less pressure on the ...