BUILDING THE FUTURE: THE ROLE OF GREEN BUILDING AND ENERGY EFFICIENCY

Introduction

In today’s world, driven by a quest for sustainability, burning of fossil fuels and carbon emissions are a direct implication of the amount of energy we use. This is particularly relevant in countries like Nigeria, where prevailing high temperatures and extreme heat events are becoming increasingly common due to climate change. The Nigerian Meteorological Agency recently stated that air temperatures hit 41°C over the North and 39°C over the South with model Projections indicating temperatures to remain high in the coming days. Buildings take a huge chunk of the energy consumption quota with about 36% of worldwide energy use, comparatively more than industries (32%) and transportation (28%).

In simple terms, Green Building refers to the application of processes that are environmentally conscious and effectively manage resources throughout the life-cycle of a building – Design, Construction, Operation, Maintenance (DCOM). The aim of Green Building is to maximize the positive effects of the building process and the building itself on the environment and its occupants primarily considering energy use, water use, indoor environment quality, and material selection. Energy Efficiency involves consuming less energy in the construction and operation of buildings while still maintaining the desired operational output of the building.

In this article, we will discuss how green building and energy efficiency positively affect the environment and the livelihood of building occupants. We will also look into various innovations in green building and energy efficiency.

Impact of Green Building and Energy Efficiency

Green building and energy efficiency emerge as imperative elements in building a sustainable future, aligning seamlessly with the three pillars of sustainability: Environment, Economy and Society. In the next section, we delve further into the implications of green building and energy conservation on the three pillars of sustainability.

Environmental Impact

Ever wondered if buildings could be superheroes? Well, Yes! they definitely can. Green buildings are basically ‘environmental superheroes’ saving the earth from climate change. Green buildings contribute significantly to mitigating climate change, which directly impacts rising temperatures. By using energy-efficient materials, incorporating natural ventilation and cooling techniques, and implementing renewable energy sources, green buildings can help reduce indoor heat, lower energy consumption for cooling, and minimize their greenhouse gas footprint, leading to a cooler overall environment. Additionally, green buildings incorporate water-saving and waste reduction strategies, further promoting efficient resource management.

Economic Impact

Green building and energy efficiency also slash operational costs through smart design features like natural light optimization and efficient insulation, leading to lower utility bills for building owners. Studies show green buildings can save up to 30% in energy consumption, translating to significant savings over time. These buildings attract more attractive investments, command higher rents and sell faster than their non-green counterparts. Green building practices further create new employment opportunities for professionals that specialize in sustainable design and construction innovations and technologies.

Social Impact

Green buildings, with their focus on natural light and ventilation, create cooler and more comfortable living spaces, especially crucial in hot climates like Nigeria. This can lead to improved health and well-being for building occupants. The wave of job opportunities for skilled workers in smart construction and renewable  energy creates a platform for the well-being of communities.

Innovations and Technologies in Energy Efficiency in Buildings

Innovations and digital technologies are revolutionizing how we interact with the world and buildings are not left out. Technology and Innovation are very instrumental in enhancing energy efficiency in buildings, offering a range of solutions to optimize resource consumption and reduce environmental impact. Here are eight (8) innovations in green buildings that enhance energy efficiency in buildings:

Passive House Design

Passive House Design revolves around minimizing a building’s energy needs by maximizing the use of natural resources during its design. This approach involves super-insulation, airtight construction, high-efficiency windows, and controlled ventilation.

Building Automation Systems

Building Automation Systems employ a synergy of sensors, controllers, and software to automate and regulate various building systems. This technology optimizes the use of resources such as HVAC, lighting, and security based on real-time data to conserve energy and improve overall building performance.

Energy Recovery Ventilation

This technology enhances indoor air quality while conserving energy by transferring heat or coolness between outgoing and incoming air streams. By recovering energy from the ventilation process, HVAC systems are relieved of some load, leading to energy savings.

Solar Power

Solar power involves harnessing sunlight to generate electricity through photovoltaic (PV) panels. This renewable energy source reduces reliance on traditional power grids. Solar power systems contribute to energy efficiency by generating clean electricity and lowering carbon emissions.

Green Roofs

Green roofs incorporate living vegetation into building rooftops. These roofs act as natural insulation, reducing heat transfer and energy consumption for heating and cooling. Additionally, they mitigate stormwater runoff and contribute to the overall environmental health of urban areas.

Insulated Concrete Forms

Insulated Concrete Forms (ICFs) utilize foam blocks filled with concrete, creating a structure with enhanced insulation properties. They can reduce heating and cooling costs by up to 50%. ICFs are also durable, fire-resistant, and can withstand severe weather events, making them ideal for areas with harsh climates.

Energy Monitoring Systems

Energy Monitoring Systems offer real-time insights into a building’s energy consumption. By continuously tracking and analyzing energy usage data, building owners and operators can identify inefficiencies and make informed decisions to enhance energy efficiency.

Prefabricated Construction

Prefabricated construction involves assembling building components off-site before transporting and assembling them on location. This approach reduces construction time, minimizes material waste, and reduces the environmental footprint associated with traditional construction processes.

Challenges and Opportunities

In Nigeria, the advancement of innovative green building technologies faces several challenges that impact their widespread adoption including limited awareness and understanding of the benefits of technologies, upfront costs associated with implementing solutions, infrastructure and technological gaps, and inconsistent policies and regulations.

However, within these challenges lie opportunities. Overcoming awareness and infrastructure gaps can create job opportunities through training programs and build a thriving innovation ecosystem, addressing initial cost barriers can contribute to economic diversification, and advocating for supportive policies and international partnership present avenues for fostering economic growth, job creation, and sustainable development.

Conclusion

In conclusion, embracing green building innovations can pave the way for a sustainable future urging stakeholders to unite in fostering awareness, incentivizing investments, and advocating for policies that support sustainable building practices.