WORLD ENDEAVOURS IN SUSTAINABILITY
Story of the Sustainability Symbol… Throughout history, the “V” symbol has represented Victory & Happiness. Back in the 20th Century, the two finger symbol was most famous during difficult times, when people were forced to work together, sacrifice and share limited resources. In World War II, (1939-1945) Sir Winston Churchill used the “V” sign to encourage people to keep their optimism when the situation was very bad. In the 1960’s, the hippies used the “V” salute to stop the Vietnam war and share the idea of Peace + Harmony. Now, in the 21st Century, there is a new emergency in the world where we all need to work together to slow global warming and protect the ONE planet we have from pollution and overheating. So the people at the McMaster Institute for Sustainable Development in Commerce researched the history, looked into the future, and mashed the two ideas together. And that’s how the 3 finger Sustainability Salute into existence! Peace + One ...balancing the elements of our everyday lives - Society, the Environment and the Economy.
Peace Plus One means if we want Peace in the World, we must Act as One, Care as One, Protect as One and Be One.
+
=
1 - Society 2 - Environment 3 - Economy
PEACE + ONE = HARMONY AND BALANCE WORLD ENDEAVOURS IN SUSTAINABILITY
Contents 1 3 5
PREFACE STATEMENT
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NOW.FOREVER… Sustainable architectural projects. Eco-Design
Ecology and Urban Renaissance
Mili Majumdar, TERI, discusses the basic measures
IMPRINTS
Harmoniously Urban
Architects who were forerunners in sustainable architecture.
Recylable Museum
Geoffrey Bawa Sri Lanka’s Regional Modernist
Kisho Kurokawa From Metabolist to Environmentalist
Laurie Baker Pioneer of Prudent Construction
Nader Khalili The Earth Architect
advocating sustainability for new built structures EDITT Towers by Dr. Ken Yeang Nomadic Museum by Shigeru Ban
Sustain‘Ability’ Bio-Solar House by Soontorn Boonyatikam
Coiled in Nature Springtecture H by Shuhei Endo
Green Living Environment Institute of Forestry and Natural Resources by Behnisch Architekten
Geometry & Ecology Water Cube by PTW Architects
Cardboard School
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A TALE OF NEW CITIES
Carbon Clean
Urban Planning Initiatives for creating Sustainable Cities.
Masdar City by Lord Norman Foster
Reclaim
Westborough Primary School by Buro Happold
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EARTH ‘MOVERS’ Future Initiatives in Sustainable Architecture Projects. “Pet” & Environment
Rehabilitation of Veerabagupathy by Habitat
Ecology of City, Enviornment & Culture Technopolis by Dr Kisho Kurokawa
The Built Textbook Islandwood by Mithun
Prototype
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SUSTAINABILITY - AN INDIAN PERSPECTIVE
126
CREDITS
Dongtan city by Arup
‘United Bottle’ developed by Dirk Hebel & Jörg
Urban Oasis
Stollmann
Senscity Paradise by Behnisch Architekten
Treehugger The modular tree house by Sybarite
Technology Group (HTG)
Grassroot Initiative The Vedaville Project by Anil Laul
Research on Sustainable Environments in India by Parul Zaveri & Nimish Patel, Panika, Ahmedabad.
WORLD ENDEAVOURS IN SUSTAINABILITY
Preface Sustainability is defined as the capacity to maintain a certain process or state indefinitely. However this definition has to be altered when applied to the sphere of the built environment because it necessarily involves making a tangible addition to the space surrounding it. The attempt then, is to make as little an impact on the environment as possible. In the last decade or so, sustainability has emerged as a buzzword in architecture, due to the increasing awareness of the diminishing nature of the resources used during construction and use of buildings. This has resulted in several projects that strive to change the regularly accepted consumption patterns of built structures. At Ambuja Cement we have always been conscious of our responsibility towards the environment. We have endeavoured to consciously support Mavens of Green Design. As part of our ongoing campaign to support Sustainable Buildings, it gives us great pleasure to present, ‘World Endeavours in Sustainability’ - a compilation of projects that attempt to ‘touch the earth lightly’. Sustainable methods were embraced by some practitioners who were ahead of their time and who walked the talk long before it was fashionable or cool to do so. The ‘IMPRINTS’ section is a tribute to the torchbearers who through their work showed the way forward to the next generation of practices. The efforts of contemporary architectural firms are showcased in the ‘NOW.FOREVER…’, ‘EARTH ‘MOVERS’’ and ‘A TALE OF NEW CITIES’ sections via their projects, which amply demonstrate that the process of formulating new strategies for a sustainable future is well on its way. We have partnered with Indian Architect & Builder, India’s premier architecture and design magazine to bring to you the ‘Global’ rundown on some of the best initiatives in architecture to Save The Earth. Join us in the effort. Amrit Lal Kapur Managing Director, Gujarat Ambuja Cements Limited
WORLD ENDEAVOURS IN SUSTAINABILITY
Ecology and Urban Renaissance
Author : Prof. Steffen Lehmann
Statement
A
s new cities dawn, there is a necessity for greater awareness
without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their
towards urban principles for Ecologically Sustainable
own needs.”
Development (ESD), energy consumption, global warming,
urban density and other medium for Eco-Buildings.
Buildings are the biggest energy consumers. Roughly half the energy consumed in industrialised countries is used to run building, mainly
“Our biggest challenge today is to take the abstract idea of
to cool down and illuminate the interior spaces. A further 25 per
sustainable development and turn it into a daily reality.’
cent is accounted for by traffic and by transport. A large quantity of
non-renewable fossil fuel is needed to generate this energy, and the
Kofi Annan, UN (2004)
process involved in the conversion of fuel into energy has a lasting
INTRODUCTION
negative effect. This threatening situation calls for a rapid change and
Climate change is the most serious problem facing humanity. This
a fundamental reorientation of our thinking about the city (urban
issue can no longer be left to the evasions and window-dressing
design) and its buildings (architecture) – to base on the inexhaustible
that currently characterise much of the Government’s greenhouse
energy potential of the sun, wind, water and geothermal heat.
policy. At the moment, Australia and the US are the nations with
Layout, geometry and the form of new buildings should reflect such
the world’s highest per capita greenhouse gas emissions. Hence, it is
possibilities for better harnessing of natural resources. However, the
an important time to undertake research on city centres. There is a
relationship between available technology and urban design decisions
strong interest in sustainability that is focusing upon understanding
has become a complex issue. There is much talk about “The
the local distinctiveness of a place, and the significance of heritage in forming individual and community identities within the context of cultural and technological change. Sustainable architecture is most effective when set in the urban context of a city centre, combined with high-density developments.
NEW ‘CONSTRUCTED ECOLOGIES’? ‘Sustainable development’ is defined by the Brundtland Report
Roughly half the energy consumed in industrialised countries is used to run buildings, mainly to cool down and illuminate the interior spaces.
(1987) as “development that meets the needs of the present,
11 WORLD ENDEAVOURS IN SUSTAINABILITY
Compact City” and renewable energy sources, but what are some
consumption, i.e., operating costs to cool and light the interiors, not
practical strategies that can be applied to urban design? How can
construction costs that are increasingly problematic. A sensible trend
we design urban open spaces and buildings in such a way that only
to combat this problem is to shift away from buildings with intensive
a minimum of energy is needed to light, ventilate and service them?
technical installations and air-conditioning to ones using efficient
And by doing so, can we find a poetic response, where the building
new faced technology, e.g. double-skin facades. The exploitation of
envelope is formed by simple and strong architectural ideas,
solar energy in particular has become a strong formal determinant
rather than by being technologically driven? Importantly, sustainable
in developing new architectural concepts and facades, in which
building development means applying technical aids sparingly and
efficiency and sustainability are combined.
making the most of all passive means provided by the building fabric. ‘Decision-making in architectural design must be based on both an
REDUCTION OF AUTOMOBILE DEPENDENCE AND VEHICAL TRAFFIC
ethical position and a coherent understanding of the objectives and
The placement of buildings, and how compactly they are
systems involved.’
grouped, has immediately a direct impact on energy consumption,
With this in mind, Radford (2003) is right, when he demands that
determines traffic patterns and, thus, the production of greenhouse
INTEGRATION OF ECOLOGY IN THE URBAN DESIGN PROCESS As we begin to fully understand the consequences of our dependency on fossil energy, the automobile and the cost of mobility, it becomes clear that traditional knowledge of aesthetics of urban composition and construction (as was suggested by Camillo Sitte), is no longer sufficient. Today, all aspects of the environment have to be considered. In an urban context, the quality of space and light, the questions of urban form and grouping, the choice of materials, all have to be considered as an integral part of an ecological proposal. However, the greatest challenge in terms of sustainable building lies in the area of reduction of energy
A future without the automobile is highly unlikely. However, compact urban design can minimise greenhouse gases from transportation and traffic through a reduction in automobile dependency.
gases and global warning. A future without the automobile is highly unlikely. However, compact urban design can minimise greenhouse gases from transportation and traffic through a reduction in automobile dependency. In US, and frequently in Australian cities too, there is a large disparity between where people live and where they work, resulting in longer commuting distances than for people in European or Asian cities. Sustainable architecture is only really
It is less environmentally damaging to stimulate the growth within established cities, rather than sprawling into new, formerly unbuilt areas.
effective when set in an urban planning context, which itself is based on sustainable principles. An answer is the urban renewal
In our post-industrial era today, the re-use regeneration of former
of the city centre as a place to live and work, where a higher
industrial sites or docklands offer much potential (e.g., the former mill
population density and more compact communities offer everything
sites in Mumbai would offer a great opportunity to build ‘SolarCity’),
within walking and cycling distance. Such high density centres close
since these ‘brownfield’ sites are located in close proximity to the city
to public transport nodes are the aim of what is called Transport
centre. Such economic re-use of land, with a reasonable population
Oriented Development (TOD) communities with a large degree
density, coupled with a program of well-designed, mixed-use infill
of self-sufficiency and, at the same time, good links by light railway
projects, and would also help reduce the need for more transport
(e.g., tramway system) with the rest of the city. The principle is
infrastructure. It is less environmentally damaging to stimulate the
to have higher-density building around well-planned public open
growth within established cities, rather than sprawling into new, formerly
spaces, close to the train station. Sustainable urbanism means
un-built areas. CO2 emission will not be reduced as long as we continue
to encourage travel on foot, bicycle and public transport, and
to build suburbs at low densities on the urban fringe, and as long as
discourage solo-driving to work and for other purposes.
populations continue to decline in the historical inner city areas.
A sustainable solution for congested Mumbai and many other
In previous years, new office parks outside the city and far from
mega-inner-city sites: reusing ‘brownfield sites’ and existing structures.
the residences of the workforce have been built. As such, all office
13 WORLD ENDEAVOURS IN SUSTAINABILITY
workers were forced to commute to the workplace. This is, of course, not ecologically sustainable, since the energy associated with work related travel is excessively high. By comparison, the adaptation of existing former warehouses, factories or storage buildings to new workplaces can easily lead to exciting architectural results, as many recent examples well illustrate this.
A well-designed, correctly oriented city would save regular power bills up to 30 to 40 per cent.
DENSITY AND RESIDENTIAL LAND CONSUMPTION PATTERNS
step toward increased density and revitalisation of the city centre is
There is a strong relationship between the sub-divisional planning
plot of land, and stop to further increase the footprint of the city
layout and a dwelling’s energy efficiency, because the layout, size
(e.g., introducing a growth boundary). Grouping residential units or
and orientation define the overall efficiency that a dwelling will be
townhouses together in compact volumes of around four storeys
able to achieve (e.g., potential for passive solar gain, ventilation,
similar to the 19th century ‘city block’ model, as we can find in Paris,
shielding, etc.). Better planning of subdivisions and higher density will
Barcelona or Berlin would bring considerable environment benefits
automatically help to reduce energy consumption. A well-designed,
such as:
correctly oriented city would save regular power bills up to 30 to 40
- Smaller building envelopes, therefore less land use;
per cent. Using solar hot water as well, would see up to 60 per cent
- Less materials, therefore lower construction costs; and
saving, resulting in signification reduction of greenhouse emission.
- Reduced energy consumption
to move away from the detached suburban house, set on its own
By varying densities of neighbouring communities and encouraging mixed-usage developments, the much appreciated diversity of use for compact urban areas would be delivered, with a good balance between living and working spaces.
DIFFERENT CLIMATE – DIFFERENT LOCATIONS: GETTING THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN VOLUME AND FAÇADE SURFACE RIGHT
Transport in a sustainable city involves less use of cars and much
If we base urban design and architecture on the local climate, we will
more use of a public light rail, cycling and walking facilities. A first
arrive at a more distinctive, regional architectural language. In a hot
cross-ventilation and to keep massive materials such as concrete
WHERE TO NOW? SOME CONCLUDING REMARKS
floors or masonry walls fully shaded, to avoid thermal storage and
Only slowly is the use of renewable energy sources being
gain of unwanted heat in the building mass. It is of prime importance
implemented. The reason is clear: at present, fossil-based
to avoid long west-oriented façades and an advantage to have
sources of energy are still less expensive. However, sustainable
compact volumes with a reduced façade surface area. Therefore,
cities are a matter of national priority. The most significant
the attached four-level dwelling-type, such as a ‘townhouse’, within
environmental challenges of our time are global climate change
a medium-density estate, is a very successful model, now widely
and excessive fossil fuel dependency. Related to this are rising
adapted in the Netherlands, Germany, Austria and Switzerland.
greenhouse gas emissions, and water, soil and air pollution – all
(e.g., sub-tropical or tropical) climate, it is important to ensure good
of which have significant environmental, social and economical
SOLAR ORIENTATION: MAKING THE FACADE SPECIFIC TO THEIR SUN ORIENTATION
consequences. It is important that we go on challenging the private sector to do more.
There is now a new generation of photovoltaic system available, using thin-film technology. Finally, over an operating lifetime of 15
The development industry must take a big share of the responsibility
to 20 years, these new photovoltaic modules will generate up to
for contributing to the current state of our environment. We need
ten times the energy that it took to make them. A necessity for
to invest in sustainability to get new technologies; many governments
the system to work efficiently is, of course, the optimisation of its
all over the world are introducing a regulating scheme to increase
orientation. Well laid-out subdivions are ones where homes and
the use of renewable energies. Cities are built resources with high
offices face the right way for passive solar heating and cooling, for
primary energy content. Renewable forms of energy present an
the use of solar hot water heaters, for maximum natural light, and
opportunity to make inner-city life more attractive. It is crucial to
for taking advantage of the local wind direction to catch the cooling
avoid the mistakes in urban design because such mistakes are later
breezes. It results in substantially lower energy consumption when
hard or impossible to fix.
the building facades are made specific to their orientation, with an international placement of closed wall surface, small window
Sustainability today is affordable and profitable – seen over the
openings or larger glazings.
lifetime of a building.
15 WORLD ENDEAVOURS IN SUSTAINABILITY
“Treat the Earth not given to parents. It was by your c
rth well. It was you by your s loaned to you children” - Kenyan Proverb
17
WORLD ENDEAVOURS IN SUSTAINABILITY
IM P RINT S Architects who were forerunners of sustainable architecture. Well before their time, they created environments that are as relevent today as they were when they were built, leaving their imprints on the future.
19 WORLD ENDEAVOURS IN SUSTAINABILITY
GEOFFREY BAWA Sri lanka’s regional modernist Deshamanya Geoffrey Bawa, FRIBA (1919–2003) is the most renowned architect in Sri Lanka and was among the most influential architects in Southeast Asia in the last decades of the 20th century. He was the principal force behind what is today known globally as ‘tropical modernism’.
Imprints: • 1978, University of Ruhuna, Sri Lanka – Bawa used a limited vocabulary of forms and materials borrowed from the ancient building traditions and designed the scheme in a way that least disturbed the natural topography. • 1980, Parliament of Sri Lanka, Colombo – The most outstanding feature of the design was that the marshy valley was flooded to create a lake of 120 hectares and the new complex was built on a knoll of high ground which would become an island at the lake’s centre.
Geoffrey Bawa did not work without first reading the lines of the land, the influence of the climate, the kinds of things that grow here or there. His was architecture that conforms as it adorns. He thought through the landscape, opened space up to it, let the outside mingle within. His structures are airy and light, open and outstretched; they speak of bright winds, partake of greenery, breathe the warm breath of the beach. An acute sensitivity to his surroundings characterised everything he did.
Photographs: courtesy Indian Architect & Builder
“You must ‘run’ with the site; after all, you don’t want to push nature out with the building.”
21 WORLD ENDEAVOURS IN SUSTAINABILITY
KISHO KUROKAWA FROM METABOLIST TO ENVIRONMENTALIST Kisho Kurokawa made his debut into the world of architecture at the age 26, as a cofounder of the Metabolism Movement. His major works include Hiroshima City Museum of Contemporary Art, National Ethnological Museum, and Nagoya City Art Museum. Although he had practiced the concept of sustainable and ecominded architecture for four decades, Kisho Kurokawa became more adamant about environmental protection in his later years. Looking at his architecture — particularly at metabolism — tradition may not appear to be present, but, underneath the hard skin of the surface, his work is indeed Japanese. Kurokawa’s architecture evolved from the Japanese tradition, and there is a Japanese aesthetic in the context of his work. His architecture focused on keeping traditional Japanese concepts invisible, especially materiality, impermanence, receptivity and detail. Photographs: courtesy Indian Architect & Builder
Imprints: • 1995, Kuala Lumpur International Airport - This scheme was designed with the aim of negating the possible harm to the environment caused by such a largescale development. • 2007, National Art Centre, Tokyo – Designed to rival the mechanical display space is the atrium facade, which is an enormous transparent undulation. As the trees surrounding the museum grow, the atrium becomes enclosed within a forested public space.
“a transition from the age of the machine to the... Age Of Life”
23 WORLD ENDEAVOURS IN SUSTAINABILITY
LAURIE BAKER Pioneer of PRUDENT construction Laurence Wilfred “Laurie” Baker was an award-winning British-born Indian architect, renowned for his initiatives in cost-effective energy-efficient architecture and for his unique space utilisation and simple but beautful aesthetic sensibility. He came to India in 1945 in part as a missionary and since then lived and worked here for over 50 years. Baker sought to enrich the culture in which he participated by promoting simplicity and home-grown quality in his buildings. Seeing so many people living in poverty in the region and throughout India served also to amplify his emphasis on cost-conscious construction, one that encouraged local participation in development and craftsmanship - an ideal that Mahatma Gandhi expressed as the only means to revitalise and liberate an impoverished India. Photographs: courtesy Indian Architect & Builder
Imprints: • 1969, The Hamlet, Kerala – Baker’s own home was situated on a steeply contoured and rocky site, but Baker did not disturb even a single rock or a tree. • 1976, Chitralekha Film Studio, Aakulam - Baker used methods here, as with many of his other projects, that were economical and durable, and materials that were locally available and reflected the architecture of the area.
“I have never doubted that in a country like ours any of us has any right to squander or waste, or use unnecessarily money, materials or energy.”
25 WORLD ENDEAVOURS IN SUSTAINABILITY
NADER KHALILI THE EARTH ARCHITECT He was an Iranian-born architect, writer, and humanitarian who received his philosophy and architectural education in Iran, Turkey and the United States. Khalili was known for his innovation into the Geltaftan Earth-and-Fire System known as Ceramic Houses and the Earthbag Construction technique called Super Adobe. He was involved with Earth Architecture and Third World Development since 1975, and was U.N. consultant for Earth Architecture. He developed his Super Adobe system in 1984, in response to NASA’s call for designs for human settlements on the Moon and Mars. In 1991 he founded the California Institute of Earth Art and Architecture (Cal-Earth), where he taught his Super Adobe building technique. Although Khalili’s work received mixed support in his native country, arguably due to social paradigms and political unrest, he became a prominent American leader on the value of ethically based architecture, where the needs of the homeless are considered above all else. Photographs: courtesy Indian Architect & Builder
Imprints: • 1980, The Sustainable Desert Village, Iran - Based on ancient clay technologies, these tow sculpted-earth construction methods, combined with a dome-shaped design, are capable of withstanding severe heat, cold, rain, snow, wind and earthquakes. • 1996, The Hesperia Museum and Nature Centre, California - Khalili combines ancient techniques with space age technology, the Centre serves as a model for low-cost, durable housing around the world and was constructed entirely of naturally-occurring elements: earth, air, fire and water.
“The architecture of timeless materials is not a lot of clever innovation. It’s distilling.”
27 WORLD ENDEAVOURS IN SUSTAINABILITY
“We share th only with our f beings, but other cre
the Earth not fellow human t with all the eatures.” - The Dalai Lama
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WORLD ENDEAVOURS IN SUSTAINABILITY
NO W . FORE V ER . . .
Architectural projects which exemplify the principles of sustainability to create a better future for humans.
31 WORLD ENDEAVOURS IN SUSTAINABILITY
Eco-Design
S
helter is a basic human need. Buildings and habitats are
design approach involving all key stakeholders in the process of
designed and constructed to fulfill this basic human need.
designing, planning and construction. The architect, landscape
Since the industrial revolution, the world has witnessed
engineer, owner, user, electrical, mechanical, plumbing engineers
incalculable technological achievements, economic and population
and energy professionals need to work hand in hand to evolve a
growth and ever-increasing use of natural resources. Increased
sustainable design that is designed to leave minimum environmental
urbanisation seen today is a result of this overall growth. The
footprint and yet not forego any of the modern day comfort
green cover, ground water resource have been forced to give way
requirements of human beings.
to these rapidly developing urban structure. Energy is another major resource that is being consumed indiscriminately to meet
The basic principals of sustainable design or ‘green design’ as it is
the power demand for air-conditioning, lighting and equipment.
popularly known, are to aim for maximum resource conservation,
Citing an example of the growing urban metropolis of Delhi in
to enhance efficient utilisation of non-renewable resources by
India, which lost its green buffer to give way to the growth of
adopting efficient systems, to maximise use of renewable forms
satellite towns of Noida and Gurgaon and in turn resulted in
of energy and recycle and reuse throughout the building life cycle
sudden weather changes due to unobstructed hot / cold winds
e.g. during the site planning, development stage building planning &
from neighbouring states. On the other hand, had the impacts been
construction and building operation & maintenance.
studied earlier, preventive interventions could have been possible. Through this article, I attempt to analyse the causative reasons
Author : Mili Majumdar (TERI)
Most conventional practitioners of modem design and construction
behind ‘un’sustainable design, during different stages of the building
find it easier to develop buildings in a vacuum as if nature, place
life cycle and measure ways and means to address these concerns.
and context do not exist. Most of today’s architectural expressions
The first section of the article addresses the site planning issues
demonstrate human dominance over nature. Inefficient and overuse
and design interventions that optimise energy use in buildings. A
of limited natural resources is evidently rampant. On the other
subsequent article in the next issue shall cover the water and waste
hand, sustainability demands restraint over use of natural resources.
management techniques. Health and well being of a building’s
Sustainability in the sector of building design is a complex concept
occupants is another important aspect in green buildings, which
of multidisciplinary character. Its realisation requires an integrated
would also be addressed.
1. SITE PLANNING AND DESIGN
damages from carving, nailing, fires or heat emitting construction
Development of a site for building purposes requires disruption
activity. The topsoil, in most cases, is the most nutrient rich layer
and disturbance of existing natural systems. The most sustainable
that supports vegetative growth. Topsoil removal and preservation
and environmental sensitive development is one that requires
should be mandatory for projects with site area greater than
very minimal site disturbance. Resource conservation measures
10,000sqmt. The preserved topsoil should be re-laid for vegetative
pertaining to site planning should entail minimum disturbance and
growth through suitable process. After ensuring its nutrient
depletion. Some recommended measures to achieve efficient site
contents as per laid out codes and standards, suitable measures
planning are giving below.
such as contour trenching, mulching to prevent soil erosion and run-off should be taken.
1.1 Preserve and protect vegetation and soil from degradation during construction
On the design front, the site planning should reflect design
Preservation and protection of existing vegetation, particularly
strategies that promote use of green belts and protected wetland
mature trees, is highly recommended. This is done by avoiding cut
to establish an innate network of native habitats and support
and fill in the root zones, delineating and fencing the drip line of all
flexible spaces integrated with the landscape for community
trees or a group of trees. Trees should also be protected against
gathering or informal activities.
Most conventional practitioners of modern design and construction find it easier to develop buildings in a vacuum as if nature, place and context do not exist.
1.2
Reduce hard paving
Hard paved parking lots, pathways, plazas and courts should be minimised. Hard paved areas enhance imperviousness of the site and generate a heat island effect, which causes a sharp microclimate temperature rise. By reducing perviousness of the site, hard paving also lowers the localised aquifer recharge potential. Dark coloured and constructed surfaces absorb solar energy and radiate it back when the ambience is cooler. So, typically one finds a sharp temperature rise in built urban areas
33 WORLD ENDEAVOURS IN SUSTAINABILITY
combination of soft and hard landscape, use of pervious paving,
1.4 Enhance site lighting efficiency and avoid light trespass/ light pollution
light coloured surfaces with higher solar reflective index and
Site lighting is mainly used to illuminate connections between
shaded hard paved surfaces. Planting trees and bushes adequately
buildings and support facilities such as sidewalks, parking lots, roads,
also helps to minimise the heat island effect.
community gathering spaces, landscaped areas and for security
than in green areas. Thus, design strategies should look at a
purposes. It must be carefully designed to avoid waste and nuisance.
1.3 Use more native/indigenous species in the landscape
It must address a few basic standards such as, it should avoid over
In the current design paradigm, architectural projects particularly
luminance; it should be properly shielded to avoid light pollution; the
large residential projects boast of extensive green cover. In effect,
optical control of light is also critical. Light pollution can be defined
we get to see expansive lawns, which symbolise the ‘green spaces’.
as waste light emanating from building site that produces glare and
Little do we realise that maintained lawns are one of the largest
adversely affects the environment. Waste light does not contribute
water consumers in any landscape. Lawns need as much as 40% to
to increased night time safety, utility or security and needlessly
60% more water as compared to native / indigenous plant species
consumes energy. Light pollution can also potentially disrupt
or trees.
biological cycles in plants and animals, as well as in humans.
Native species protect the nutrients in the biomass, promote
1.4.a Recommended practices
eco-diversity and require less maintenance and water as
Restrict area and time for night time illumination - minimise areas
compared to exotic species. Because of their ability to adapt
on site that need to be illuminated all night. For security lighting,
to local conditions, the native communities slow down the
motion-sensors may serve the purpose, in place of constant lighting.
depletion of natural resources while maintaining the character of
Clearly identify the actual purpose of lighting to determine minimum
regional landscape. Diverse communities with varying ages and
acceptable levels – safety and security lighting is an important part of
characteristics such as trees shrubs, vines and perennials should
exterior lighting. Layered lighting provides minimal ambient illumination
be planted, and monocultures and invasive species should be
with accents on hazards, destinations and architectural features.
avoided. In addition, water requirement for landscaping should be controlled through adoption of efficient irrigation practices e.g.
Use energy-efficient lamps and ballasts – the most efficient new
drip irrigation.
lamps produce ten times as many lumens per watt of power as
Preservation and protection of existing vegetation, particularly mature trees, is highly recommended. This is done by avoiding cut and fill in the root zones, delineating and fencing the drip line of all trees or a group of trees.
2. ENERGY EFFICIENCY IN GREEN BUILDINGS One of the primary requirements of a green building is that it should have optimum energy performance and yet should provide the desirable thermal and visual comfort. The three fundamental strategies adopted to optimise energy performance in building can be broadly classified into the following.
2.1 Incorporate solar passive techniques in a building design and enhanced building material specifications to minimise load on conventional systems (heating, cooling, ventilation and lighting) Passive systems provide thermal and visual comfort by using natural energy sources and sinks. e.g. solar radiation, outside
a conventional incandescent bulb. Savings on operating-cost and
air, sky, wet surfaces, vegetation, internal gains, etc. India has
labour, including deferred bulb replacement quickly recover the cost
six climatic zones ranging from extreme conditions in the cold
of re-lamping. Technologies to reduce light pollution include full cut
deserts of Leh and Ladakh to extreme hot & dry conditions in
off luminaries, low-reflectance surfaces, and low-angle spotlights.
Rajasthan. A building in a cold climatic zone needs to adopt measures to maximise its solar heat gains by embracing measures
Use of appropriate control strategies – simple timers or photocells can
like maximum exposure to south, windows to capture heat, dark
be used to turn light on and off at appropriate times. Use renewable
coloured surfaces, high thermal mass and insulation to retain
energy sources for lighting and other outdoor power – photovoltaic
the captured warmth of the sun or use of design elements such
power is low-maintenance and very reliable. Its design must be specific
as trombe wall, sun spaces etc. On the other hand, a building
to both the region and the site. It requires storage batteries for night
designed for a hot climate should take measures to reduce solar
time lighting. Manufactures also offer solar path-lights, streetlights, and
gain like smaller window sizes, shaded walls, minimum exposure
security light. Low voltage lighting with photovoltaic collectors should
to west and east or use of design elements like solar chimneys,
be considered for an energy-efficient alternative.
wind towers, etc to maximise ventilation.
35 WORLD ENDEAVOURS IN SUSTAINABILITY
Harmoniously Urban
1 Information Based Architect ©
Transforming a completely urban, non-organic site at which the natural ecosystem has been completely devastated — EDITT Towers by Dr. Ken Yeang ecologically balances urban environment as a living-breathing organism.
S
ingapore is an epitome of urban migration scenario: with little land and lots of people. The need of ecologically sound urban planning and architectural design takes on a special importance here. Rising to this challenge, Dr. Ken Yeang’s proposal for the EDITT Towers won the 1998 competition for Ecological Design in the Tropics. The project design integrates green space to human-use area in the ratio of 1:2. A particularly important point in the design of the organic components is the survey of plant life in the neighbourhood of the building to ensure that the plants incorporated in the building
Photographs: courtesy T.R.Hamzah & Yeang Sdn.Bhd
project do not compete with indigenous species. The design approach is to re-habilitate this with organic mass to enable ecological succession to take place and to balance the existent ‘inorganicness’ of this urban site. The unique design feature of this scheme is in the well-planted façades and vegetated-terraces which have green areas that approximate the gross useable-areas of the rest of the building. The vegetation areas are designed to be continuous and to ramp upwards from the ground plane to the uppermost floor in a linked landscaped ramp. The organic spaces are intended also to ramp up from the street
1. The EDITT Tower will rehabilitate a site classified as “zero-culture”: a completely urban, non-organic site at which the natural ecosystem has been completely devastated. 2. The project design integrates green space to human-use area in the ratio of 1:2. 3. The EDITT tower will achieve almost 40% energy self-sufficiency through a system of solar panels.
level to the top of the building, effectively integrating the sky scraper’s 26 storeys into the surface landscape. This extension of the horizontal plane into the vertical space is further promoted by drawing the street-level shops and pedestrian activities up to the sixth floor along the system of landscaped ramps. The building will have over 55% water self-sufficiency based on water reuse relying on built-in filter systems. The EDITT tower will achieve almost 40% energy
self-sufficiency through a system of solar panels. Additionally, sewage will be reclaimed to fertilizer and built in waste hoppers will drop separated waste streams to the basement to facilitate recycling. Architectural elements are designed to direct wind for ventilation and ceiling fans with water misters to minimise refrigerant based air conditioning. The building is designed to have mechanically-joined connections of materials and its structural connections to facilitate future reuse and recycling.
Vegetation placements within the tower at different heights respond to the microclimates of each individual sub-zone of the tower.
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37 WORLD ENDEAVOURS IN SUSTAINABILITY
Recylable Museum
1 Information Based Architect ©
Composed of 152 steel cargo containers and recycled paper tubes for the roof, reusable wooden planks, gravel and sand for the floor, the Nomadic Museum by Shigeru Ban is a recyclable museum.
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temporary structure made of shipping containers located on an abandoned pier, where the survivors of the Titanic were docked in 1912, is something which most are unlikely to expect for a museum. But not when you know about the creator who has the reputation to create amazing structures from unexpected materials including paper. The colossal temporary construction is a simple act of stacking 148 containers in two 4-storey, 672ft long walls along Pier 54. The 45,000sqft museum is made from multicoloured steel shipping containers and recycled paper tubes which are arranged in checkerboard pattern and held
Photographs: courtesy Shigeru Ban, Gregory Colbert
together by twist locks. The idea behind using containers was their availability in every place the museum would travel to, rather than having to ship the entire exhibit to locations around the world. Though standardised steel boxes as a new route for architectural expression was experimented for more than 40 years now, Shigeru Ban does not fetishise the containers qua containers. Indeed outside they are purely functional; inside they alter their functionality. The 8ft x 8.6ft containers are arranged in checkerboard pattern, with every other spot left void and covered with an angled white plastic trap. The roof is custom designed consisting of 18 modules bolted
1. To show his art around the world, Gregory Colbert had a building made that could go around the world with it. 2.The aluminium roof trusses and tensile roof fabric are engineered and fabricated to be easily deconstructed, stored and shipped to future locations.
together. Each module consists of two 2’x10’ rafters; one 4’x10’ rafter and four PVC white fabric panels tensioned with 2’x4’ fastening tubes. An ethaform core is placed between the rafters to make it watertight seal. Fabric was secured with aluminium extrusion custom made with a flat bottom to fit tightly against the steel. The containers easily span the distance locked in at their corners as they are designed to be on the deck of a ship or waiting all those battered steel boxes. Kitsch is thus banished, as the walls become mere windscreens and a means to take the load off the roof.
The columns bear no weight; their only function is to take over in earnest to shape the space. The specially designed paper tubes composed of recycled paper feature an inner and outer waterproof membrane and are coated with a waterproof sealent. An open-air piazza area and the original arched-steel gate of Pier 54 mark the entrance of this cultural sanctuary. An impressive handmade curtain, suspended from the ceiling, made from one million used paper tea bags, filters the light and emits a sepia tone throughout.
3. Nomadic Museum building is composed largely of recyclable and reusable materials, demonstrating sustainable practices and an innovative architectural approach. 4. Designed for easy assembly and disassembly, the entire exhibition is packed into eight containers as it travels from place to place.
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Truly “nomadic,� the museum was designed to be disassembled and reconfigured to house the traveling exhibit.
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5. A colonnade of 64 cardboard pillars supports the gabled roof of the Nomadic Museum. 6. The wide wood-plank walkways are bordered on either side by bays filled with river rock.
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The most surprising fact of this structure is that the whole exhibit moves in only 40 containers, while each host city supplies the other 100 to complete the structure: simple and efficient. Even though the use of containers in architecture is not new, it is usually for space efficiency and not for structural purposes. This is what makes this museum so innovative and ecologically sustainable.
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Sustain‘ability’
1
The house embodies a “philosophy of modern living,” based on economy, technology, environmental preservation, and social values. This comfort extends to air quality, cooling, lighting, and acoustics despite the reduced load on the environment.
T
hailand’s first Bio-Solar House, known for its sustainability is a completely self-reliant abode in Bangkok where nothing goes to waste. The Bio-Solar House was developed in collaboration with a multidisciplinary team comprised of students and faculty from architecture, engineering and science departments by Soontorn Boonyatikam, a professor of architecture at Chulalongkorn University in Thailand. The bio-solar house is a high-tech, ecology-friendly version of what Le Corbusier called “a machine for living.” The house’s energy is generated through solar panelling.
Photographs: courtesy Soontorn Boonyatikam, Indian Architect & Builder
Water supply is maintained collectively via rain, dew and condensation from a cooling system which is recycled and used to replenish the garden. Eco-consciousness is extended beyond the premises with an electrical car that is powered by surplus electricity generated by the house. The house is selfreliant and produces its own electricity, water, and cooking gas. Solar energy powers the air-conditioning, lights, and household appliances. Rain, dew, and condensation from the cooling system produce enough water for a family of four. Recycled water irrigates the garden, and surplus electricity is sold to the power
1. Sustainability is wholly integrated with home life with Thailand’s first Bio-Solar House, a completely self-reliant abode in Bangkok where nothing goes to waste. 2. The Bio-solar home’s energy is generated entirely through solar panelling. 3. Site plan of the house.
company or used to drive an electric car 30 miles (50 kilometers) a day. At first sight, the house hardly stands out among the other homes in a gated residential community. The house has a slanting roof with overhanging eaves, sand-coloured walls, a tastefully landscaped garden, and an attached carport. Buried in the garden are a photovoltaic system, biogas unit, air conditioner, condensation collection unit, water recycling
equipment, filtering units, and storage tanks. Nothing in this home-cum-ecosystem goes to waste. Garden clippings (grass and leaves) and wet kitchen waste fertilise the small, organic vegetable garden. The roof, absorbs most of the heat and is made of metal. Between the roof and the one-foot thick insulation is an air duct, allowing the wind to ventilate the heat absorbed by the roof. The garden has several artificial mounts
designed to direct the wind towards the house. While the house has windows on all four sides, eaves and recessed windows prevent the sun from shining directly into most of the interior. To further reduce heat gain, all windows and doors have triple-paned (“heat-stop”) glass. The only room receiving direct sunlight is the “green room,” a square, glass-encased space that cantilevers over the swimming pool. The extended part of the floor is made of glass, providing an unobstructed view of the water. At night, when the room is lit, it seems to float above the pool. The sun powers all equipment, including the pumps for the oval-shaped swimming pool. A modified personal computer linked to dozens of sensors controls the system and the temperature and humidity in all the rooms and reads the outdoor wind speed. The biogas unit produces cooking gas from household waste.
Control Panel
Battery
TOU METER
Inverter
Load Center
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Soontorn estimates that if Thailand built 300,000 such houses, the country would not need any additional power stations.
43 WORLD ENDEAVOURS IN SUSTAINABILITY
Coiled in Nature
1
The liveliness and freshness of the Springtecture H by Shuhei Endo demonstrates that prestigious and environmentally responsible architecture can be created even from a washroom, a landmark that changed the landscape around it and has an influence on contemporary architecture.
T
he public lavatories are
of the geometrical complexities
required to provide
revealed by modern science. As
convenience, based on
the functional program required
1. Public washrooms... an unattractive, somewhat embarrassing subject, and yet they were the inspiration behind architect Shuhei Endo’s investigation of his “Rooftecture”. 2. This small building only 119sqmt in Singu-cho Park demonstrates that prestigious architecture can be created even with limited means, economy and an unattractive subject.
openness and security, deriving
an economical ‘open’ scheme
from enclosure. This small
yet a formal appearance of a
meets in the centre of the coils,
which architect Shuhei Endo
119sqmt building demonstrates
‘closed’ environment to give
each leading to the various
defines as ‘halftecture’ and
that prestigious architecture
the user a sense of security, the
spaces which are separated and
introduces outdoor space into
can be created even from a
architectural concept was to
defined by battered, translucent
the Springtecture H construction.
washroom, a landmark that
create a link between it through
glass infill panels. Each wet area
changed the landscape around
the continuity of the material.
is created as a simple orthogonal
The Springtecture H structure
brick structure that sits lightly
takes the basic form of a large
inside each coil.
spiral, a very dramatic form
it and has an influence on contemporary architecture.
The characteristics of the ‘open’ are essentially the possibility of
Photographs: courtesy Shuhei Endo, Indian Architect & Builder
which nonetheless arises out
The dramatic form grows out
free passage which Shuhei Endo
Shelter (the sense of being
of the nature of the material
of the nature of the material
supplies in three directions: a
closed in) is provided by the
and appears very logical and
and, once seen, seems natural,
janitor’s room and toilets for
sheets of steel enveloping the
natural in its place. The idea was
logical and economical. But the
men and women, yet no single
visitor and accompanying the
to create a link between open
Springtecture H form is entirely
clearly-defined entrance. Instead,
visitor from the outdoors. This
and closed spaces through the
new and has mysterious echoes
a system of forked pathways
duality is a part of the style
exploration and celebration of
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The Springtecture H is a small attempt towards a new sustainable architecture realised by continuous interplay between the interior and the exterior, challenging architectural norms expected by the observer, and suggesting a new, heterogeneous architectural form.
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3. The spaces in this tiny building are strongly characterised using a single basic element: strips of steel which can be recycled. 4. The sheets have structural strength and are long-lasting and recyclable thanks to their galvanised surface. 5. The structure takes the basic form of a large spiral, a very dramatic form which nonetheless arises out of the nature of the material and appears very logical and natural in its place.
the potential of a commonplace product: galvanised corrugated metal in thickness of 3.2mm, with gate-shaped auxiliary materials partially inserted. The material is an industrial product as its structural strength is long-lasting and recyclable. The sheets are of standard size, and the structure was erected directly on the site with nuts and bolts. What are walls inside become ceilings and floors on the outside, continuing into external walls and roofs, they coil back into the interior. It is a series of fluid changes without distinguishing them as elements. 5
47 WORLD ENDEAVOURS IN SUSTAINABILITY
Green Living Environment
1
A functional, user-friendly research facility working in harmony with nature; versatile and ecologically sound, the Institute of Forestry and Natural Resources by Behnisch Architekten encompasses all these.
T
his EU pilot project for
to dominate its rural setting,
ecological construction
but to embrace the landscape,
incorporates progressive
with all workplaces in direct
ideas from both the client and
contact with indoor and outdoor
user groups, creating a multi-
gardens. Two indoor gardens
layered framework that is
provide the focus for daily
capable of responding to the
activities and function as informal
multitude of demands in such
meeting areas. Beyond this, they
sustainable building techniques
their identity as a place inhabited
a research establishment. The
are an integral component of
can be realised without extra
by nature experts.
design’s deliberate aesthetic
the building’s energy concept,
costs. Behnisch Architekten
imperfection is an appeal to an
improving the performance of
created a multi-layered concept
The building form begins from
unmediated, primarily sensory
the external envelope.
and framework incorporating
an open concrete skeletal
ideas from the client and user
spine that acts as a thermal
experience of architecture. The
Photographs: courtesy Behnisch Architekten
1. Institute of Forestry and Natural Resources (re-named Alterra) — integrates vegetation into the urban fabric which allows to improve quality of life issues, while offering many innovative opportunities for green architecture. 2. It offers biophilic benefits (an affiliation between humans and other living organisms) to inhabitants, increase the ecological productivity of the site, and connect buildings with their unique local environment.
project was realised within a
The building concept required a
group. In this way, the users of
mass, or natural cooling system.
standard budget demonstrating
strategy to maximise reduction
the institute could show how
The large air volumes of the
that durable and sustainable
of carbon dioxide emissions.
sustainable landscaping and
covered garden equalise and
building techniques can be
This project was achieved
an ecologically sensible use of
buffer the temperature of inside
applied without additional costs.
with a standard budget to
nature might be realised. At the
and outside. This has virtually
The building was designed not
demonstrate that durable and
same time, they could express
removed the necessity for
After careful analysis of the surrounding neighbourhood, the architects developed a landscape that added elements such as dry-stone walls, scattered groups of tress, hedges, beams, ponds, swaps tree lanes etc with the potential for future growth.
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mechanical air treatment in the three office wings. In addition, a self-regulating capacity ventilation system for temperature is achieved through the operable “green houses� glass roof that collects natural daylight and opens to allow for maximum ventilation. The roof and facades are also fitted with heat reflecting foil and sun blinds to aid in regulating sun exposure. The singleglazed covered gardens offer a variety of possibilities. One is the positive influence of the climatic 3
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This project utilises renewable or recyclable building materials throughout, such as indigenous woods, larch and robinia, for timber because they emit less carbon dioxide than tropical or other northern European woods.
conditions of the building as a whole. The rainwater collected from the roof is recycled for use in the toilets and to irrigate the indoor gardens. This project utilises renewable or recyclable building materials
throughout, such as indigenous woods, larch and robinia, for timber because they emit less carbon dioxide than tropical or other northern European woods. In consideration are the energy consumption of the building for construction and running costs, energy consumption in the production of the materials, and the costs of de-mounting and disposing the building in the safest possible way in the future. In comparison to other analysed buildings, the costs 8
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imposed on the environment by the institute building summarised
3. Interior courtyard successfully integrates plants into buildings and their systems require a team approach. 4 - 6. Evergreen vines on a wall trap an insulating cushion of air and reduce wind chill. 7 - 10. Indoor plants purify, humidify and oxygenate air, improving indoor air quality greatly. Purifying air in this way can lead to lower requirements for exterior air, and associated conditioning, lessening energy demand for the building’s HVAC system.
to 127% of the initial investment costs. Other buildings analysed had values of 150% to 200%. Of particular note, the institute building also performs above 9
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experimental standards.
51 WORLD ENDEAVOURS IN SUSTAINABILITY
Geometry & Ecology
1
The Water Cube by PTW Architects based on the formation of soap bubbles uses state-of-the-art technology and materials to create a building that is visually striking, energy efficient and ecologically friendly.
Photographs: courtesy PTW Architects
T
he design, known as the
The structural design of the
“Watercube”, plays on
National Aquatics Centre, also
the geometry of water
known as ‘The Water Cube’, is
bubbles, fantastically crystallised
based on the natural formation
as a massive rectangular form.
of soap bubbles which give a
Central to the design philosophy
random, organic appearance.
that underpins the Water Cube
The Water Cube has been
is the core objective of water
constructed using the latest
conservation, more specifically,
technologies in dew prevention,
the design of water efficient
heat radiation, cleaning systems
systems. The architect proposed
and ventilation.
the reuse and recycling of 80%
Appearance-wise, it is a giant
of water harvested from the roof
luminescent bubble. The
catchment areas, pool backwash
building uses solar energy to
systems and overland flows, by
heat the pools and the interior
incorporating water sensitive
area, and all backwash water
urban design principles into the
is filtered and returned to the
Water Cube.
swimming pools.
1. “Watercube”, plays on the geometry of water bubbles, fantastically crystallised as a massive rectangular form. 2. The structure of the Watercube is based on a unique lightweight construction and is derived from the structure of water bubbles in the state of aggregation found in foam. 3. The Watercube associates water as a structural and conceptual “leitmotiv” with the square, the primal shape of the house in Chinese tradition and mythology.
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Located inside the Olympic Park, it contains 6,000 permanent and 11,000 temporary seats and its total surface area covers 80,000sqmt.
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53 WORLD ENDEAVOURS IN SUSTAINABILITY
5
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4. Behind the totally random appearance hides a strict geometry that can be found in natural systems like crystals, cells and molecular structures - the most efficient subdivision of three-dimensional space with equally sized cells. 5. The transparency and apparent randomness is equally transposed into the inner and outer building-skins, made of inflated ETFE cushions. 6. The reflection of light changes the colour; outside it reflects the sky and the outer layer is slightly tinted in blue, inside the white prevails, the sun coming through highlights the ETFE and the structure. 7. 90% of the solar energy falling on the building is trapped within the highly efficient structural zone and is used to heat the pools and the interior area.
The structure comprises a steel space frame, the largest ETFE clad structure in the world, with over 100,000sqmt of ETFE pillows that are only eight one-thousandths of an inch thick.
The building’s skin, made from
around the world. This state-of-
screening of the competitions
an innovative and lightweight
the-art material provides a cost
and is an ecologically-sensitive
transparent “teflon”, abbreviated
effective cladding solution for
venue, as its design includes
as ETFE, has been designed to
modern architecture, enabling a
implementation of alternative
react specifically to lighting and
wide range of applications where
energy sources, such as
projection – and particularly the
use of traditional materials, such
solar, geothermal, wind and
advanced systems which will
as glass, may not be possible.
waste water.
four years – to create a stunning
An indisputable highlight of the
The overall structure of the
visual and sensory experience
Beijing Olympic green is that
building is so strong that if it
that will also be shared by
the facility offers spectators a
were stood up on its end, it
millions of television viewers
multiple-angle, three-dimensional
would still retain its shape.
become available in the coming
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Cardboard School
1 Information Based Architect ©
The Cardboard Building for Westborough Primary School by Buro Happold is Europe’s first permanent cardboard structure, providing a much needed educational and community space as well as an inspiring structure that works with the properties of a recyclable material.
Photographs: courtesy Buro Happold
C
ardboard is commonly used for packaging and storing, and the material is almost entirely made from recycled material. Cardboard in combinations with other building components and coatings, can be made water and/or fire resistant. The aim of the project was primarily environmental – cardboard is a recycled product that can in itself be recycled. What was to be showcased here was that cardboard, in construction, has potential to be a green building material. The aims of
with an estimated life of 20 years with 90% recyclable and recycled ability and to develop business opportunities for all partners.
the project varied from the demonstration of its potential with a real building, to deliver a useful building for the school
Obvious hazards to be aware of when building with cardboard are fire and water. Perhaps surprisingly, cardboard is
The design allows exposed cardboard to reflect its nature, with “corrugations” on the south wall. Although it might have been simpler to produce a basic “box,” the team felt that this would not adequately show off the capabilities of the material and the manufacturing processes available for it.
1. Cardboard made from recycled paper is proving to be an inexpensive and environmentally sustainable building material as demonstrated by the School made of card by Buro Happold. 2. The aim was to use cardboard components wherever possible, with a target of 90 percent recycled materials.
somewhat resistant to fire, behaving in a similar manner to solid timber, charring on the surface rather than burning quickly. An additional chemical treatment, however, further minimises the risk of surface spread of flame. Water is a challenge, because wet, soggy cardboard loses its strength. So each panel is waterproofed with a technique adopted from the packaging industry. The designers applied a recycled plastic coating
to external layers, for both exterior and interior surfaces, to protect an inner loadbearing core. Furthermore, the walls and roof were given an extra layer to keep rain off the exterior surface. This layer gives the cardboard additional impact protection, which further extends its useful life. The main output from the product is the building itself. It consists of one standard product, tubes and a specially devised
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product, the panel, so this can be seen as a product in its own right. Finally, but importantly, the engagement of the school has also been an important feature of the project. Most aims sought were achieved, except for recycling. An environmental analysis done showed that Buro Happold had to use more material than expected that was neither recyclable nor recycled.
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3. Cardboard is somewhat resistant to fire, behaving in a similar manner to solid timber, charring on the surface rather than burning quickly. 4. Each panel is waterproofed with a technique adopted from the packaging industry. 5 - 7. Cardboard tubes acting as structural columns support the roof panels around the perimeter. 8. The project demonstrates the possibilities of the innovative use of cardboard in building construction, bringing long-term benefits through reduced Š Information Based Architect energy consumption and material waste.
57 WORLD ENDEAVOURS IN SUSTAINABILITY
Lab for Future Cities
1 Information Based Architect ©
Arcosanti was founded on the lofty concepts of “arcology,” an elision of “architecture” and “ecology” that was coined by Paolo Soleri and re-imagined by many science fiction writers. The movement envisions superstructures that provide commercial and residential space for the masses, but with minimal environmental impact.
A
rcosanti is an experimental town that began construction in 1970 in central Arizona, 70 miles north of Phoenix. Architect Paolo Soleri, using a concept he calls, ‘arcology’, started the town to demonstrate how urban conditions could be improved while minimising the destructive impact on the earth. Arcosanti is being built on 25 acres of a 4,060 acre land preserve, keeping its inhabitants near the natural countryside. The built and the living interact as organs would in a highly evolved being. Many systems work together, with efficient
Photographs: courtesy Cosanti Foundation
circulation of people and resources, multi-use buildings, and solar orientation for lighting, heating and cooling. The major concepts of an arcology are complexity, miniaturisation, and duration. The long-term design of
1. Arcosanti is being built on 25 acres land preserve, keeping its inhabitants near the natural countryside. 2. Architecturally, Arcosanti is remarkable for its use of tilt-up concrete panels cast in a bed of silt from the local landscape. 3. The intricate, organic design of the city maximises land use.
Arcosanti has changed somewhat multiple times since work began. In Arcosanti, apartments, businesses, production, technology, open space, studios, and educational and cultural events are all accessible, while privacy is paramount in the overall design. Greenhouses are planned to provide gardening
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The entire population of the city may be small, but living closely in a dynamic environment increases interactions and bonds, creating abundant stimulus and opportunity.
Š Information Based Architect
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4. The amphitheatre serves as a common community ground for the inhabitants. 5 - 7. Acrosanti is much more than a new-age craft centre; it is a place to live, work, and play—comfortably, sustainably, and in harmony with nature.
space for public and private use, and act as solar collectors for winter heat. Architecturally, Arcosanti is remarkable for its use of tilt-up concrete panels cast in a bed of silt from the local landscape. The silt gives the concrete a unique texture and colour, helping the structure to blend with the land.
The intricate, organic design of the city maximises land use, so the city feels much bigger than it actually is. The city serves as an educational complex where workshops and classes are offered. Students from around the world are constructing Arcosanti. In addition, about 50,000 tourists visit Arcosanti each year.
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61 WORLD ENDEAVOURS IN SUSTAINABILITY
“We nee environmental co a global basis. need to educ
ed a new consciousness on . To do this, we cate people.” - Mikhail Gorbachev
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WORLD ENDEAVOURS IN SUSTAINABILITY
EARTH ‘ MO V ER S ’ Architecture.Sustainability.Innovation. Three actions that will see a better future for future generations. Projects that show promises of a sustainable world.
65 WORLD ENDEAVOURS IN SUSTAINABILITY
Towards a Sustainable Living‌
Author : David Cook, Behnisch Architekten
T
he term sustainability has come to mean all things to all men.
offset by reducing or eliminating the need for expensive mechanical
The widespread concern for the state of the environment
and electrical systems, etc. This in turn gives rise to savings
popularised the phrase `sustainable development’ which
in running costs, the cost of maintenance of the systems and
is defined as a way to meet the need of the present without
ultimately to the cost of their replacement. We propose adopting
compromising the ability to future generations to meet their
strategies where the system recognises the response of human
own needs. The political definition of sustainable development
beings as an integral part of the system. For the last 15 years ever-
has however been extended to include social development and
increasing pressure has come to bear on developments in terms
economic progress. New buildings can only be truly sustainable
of building technology and architecture, particularly in Europe. The
if they suit their purpose and are efficient to operate, otherwise
focus has been upon the necessity to handle natural resources
they consume unnecessary resources, are a burden to owners
in a more economical and responsible manner. In this context
and risk premature replacement. The philosophy of sustainability
seemingly simple truths, for example our definition of comfort,
recommends the consideration of the whole life costs of a building,
have been questioned, new descriptions have been offered and to
both in terms of economics and environmental impact. It follows
some extent accepted. The cycles of nature have once again been
that for a building with a design life of 60 years, the cost of
recognised and considered a quality in areas where temperature
ownership and operation actually exceeds the cost of construction.
and air quality are not strictly determined by operational factors.
This may lead to slightly higher initial capital expenditure on
We seem to have begun to understand that the artificial worlds
the building elements such as cost associated with high levels of
created inside many buildings are not only unhealthy but often
insulation and air tightness, exposed thermal mass and shading are
harmful. Statistically, for example, people suffer most from allergies,
Seemingly simple truths, for example our definition of comfort, have been questioned, new descriptions have been offered and to some extent accepted
MEASUREMENT To date, not many systems have been created to comprehensively assess the environmental value of buildings, or better, assess the improvement of a building’s influence on environment, compared to traditional benchmark buildings. The general problems in assessing the environmental soundness of building is the limited understanding of the term sustainability. Currently, it is a quantityoriented term focusing on energy consumption. Yet sustainability is really about qualities and patterns of use. It could be argued that
when they have been brought up in an sterile environment, to a
you could build an energy-efficient building, which could easily be
large extent isolated from natural influences. In general, we have
a hostile architectural environment that hardly anybody would use.
become accustomed to, quite unnecessarily, demanding constant
Objectively considered, it is a sustainable building, at least in terms
internal climatic conditions. Dependant upon the exact nature of
of today’s common understanding. But relatively seen, it is not
use, it is totally accepted and even healthy if temperatures inside
sustainable at all, for if anybody uses it, it is not efficient as a building
the building fluctuate quite significantly during the different seasons.
and thus useless. For a truly sustainable approach, the design of the
This would, of course, require departing from standard set up in
building needs to be a more holistic endeavour. A basis for a more
the 60s and the 70s such as ASHRAE. To do so, architects as well
sustainability-driven view would take into consideration the purpose
as engineers require the help and understanding of both clients and
of the building, its use, energy consumed in the building’s production,
tenants, but perhaps most importantly the authorities.
the predicted lifetime of the structure, energy used for light and
67 WORLD ENDEAVOURS IN SUSTAINABILITY
heating/cooling, comfort levels (based on human-driven definitions),
A basis for a more sustainability-driven view would take in to consideration the purpose of the building, its use, energy consumed in the building’s production, the predicted lifetime of the structure, energy used for light and heating/cooling, comfort levels (based on human-driven definitions), cultural impact, and, user efficiency.
cultural impact and user efficiency. Without doubt, buildings need to be more flexible in response to ever changing patterns of life. Wouldn’t it be more sustainable to create structures that can be used for housing, retail, office or storage without needing major structural changes? This is not only a design and construction issue, it is also an issue of how people perceive their built environment. The US - based LEED system currently takes a lot of diverse aspects into account: energy, location, recycling, daylight, views to the outside environment, innovation, primary energy, material proximity, energy sources. It remains in development and can definitely be improved by the users’ working or living habitats. Importantly, issues of sustainability must be addressed, the potential impact is greatest in the infrastructure, city planning, transportation and energy sourcing. The ongoing privatisation of the energy
With the privatised energy market of today, the stakeholders seem to have no interest in energy efficiency
and that until recently the limits of natural resources were never acknowledged. As long as energy remains subsidised, with the world continuing to actually pay for the environmental damages caused by reckless generation and use of energy, there is no pressure for such companies to act in a truly responsible manner. Once we have a more responsibility-driven demand, the industry would itself start promoting more sustainable standards forcefully.
sector will continue to obstruct an efficient centralised approach. An obvious solution is for communities to provide district heating
Following this logic, society as a whole needs also to apply the
and cooling by using a pure by-product of electricity production
term sustainability for the way which we both live and work.
(steam) to provide heat and chilled water. However, with the
Naturally, this more holistic approach cannot easily be quantified
privatised energy market of today, the stakeholders seem to have
without generalising. It remains mostly a matter of common sense
no interest in energy efficiency.
and of promoting a responsible 21st century way of living and doing business. For we are convinced in 20 years time, we will ask
From the actions of some of the multinational companies, one
ourselves how our western civilisation was able to act in such a
gains the impression that the energy market remains uncontrollable,
short-sighted, selfish manner.
69 WORLD ENDEAVOURS IN SUSTAINABILITY
1 Information Based Architect ©
The modular tree house by Sybarite, situated just above the tree top level, uses lightweight recyclable materials in its construction, and underneath the house, there are “undulating kinetic baffles” that use wind power to generate electricity, give us the treehouse that we always wanted as kids — but this version is totally green.
Treehugger
T
reehouses that enthral both children as well as adults have come a long way from the makeshift hideaways that were built using scrap wood and rusty nails. The UK-based Sybarite has a new concept for treehouses - ones built using prefab modular members that are partly self-sustainable and can be assembled on site in two weeks. The design is primarily a flexible modular system focused around the sun path, i.e., how one enjoys daylight throughout a typical day. The house is designed to be assembled just above a natural tree line and very much out of the view of the public. The fluid organic lines of the design
Photographs: courtesy Sybarite, Indian Architect & Builder
are intentional and visually less imposing - very much like a helicopter floating in the sky - detached from the ground. The design direction primarily evolves from the underside, to the interior and then outwards concentrating on views and aspects above the tree horizon. The belly of the treehouse accommodates ‘kinetic baffles’ that use wind power to generate electricity. The propeller-shaped plan, which is generated by repeating standard modules that are specifically designed, accommodates modular sections that can be pre-fabricated to allow the size of the home. The concept of the system is also intended
1. A radical approach for housing units in a rural setting — the concept is an amazing display of creativity and consideration to the environment which is clearly the way things are rightfully heading these days. 2. The curvaceous undulating belly with its kinetic baffles shimmering in the wind are very much inspired by the senses experienced walking amongst woodland in strong winds. 3. The approach of this project has been directed towards achieving a design that has minimal impact upon its particular site while being extremely quick to erect, contextual within its countryside location and, most importantly, maximising the views for the home owner.
to be one of total flexibility to the extent that a two-bedroom module with two wing elements can be created as well as a typical four-bedroom plan with three wings. One of the principle environmental designs for the house utilises a series of ‘kinetic baffles’, which are lightweight aluminium blades on the belly of each wing that are specifically
designed to increase the air flow around and under the house. When the batteries are fully charged, the controller switches the excessive electricity to a heating element in the hot water cylinder. To back up the wind-generated power, a series of solar cells are placed around the perimeter of the roof that also provide for the central system. The baffles on the belly of the structure serve a double
purpose; they force fresh air into a ‘plenum’ around the floor perimeter, which can be controlled through adjustable grilles in the small up-stand around the floor edge. Another key environmental factor within the design is the ‘smart glazing’, where the glass is capable of being clear and colourless on a cold day 2
with the ability to be switched to a tinted, heat reject state on hot & glary days. At a flick of a switch, the glass can also become completely opaque through the use of electronic LCD within the glass construction. The modular treehouse concept is an amazing display of creativity and consideration to the environment, which is clearly the way things are rightfully heading these days.
Solar cells are built into the roof perimeter and the ‘belly’ contains undulating kinetic baffles that capture wind power to generate electricity. Combined with top quality insulating techniques, natural cross-ventilation enhanced by the baffles and ‘smart’ triple glazing, the Treehouse is designed to be 70% energy self-sufficient.
3
71 WORLD ENDEAVOURS IN SUSTAINABILITY
“Pet” & Environment
1
A simple water bottle as a building material in crisis situation — ‘United Bottle’ developed by Dirk Hebel & Jörg Stollmann works at the intersection of architecture, nature, technology and communication by foregrounding the body as a biological and social construct.
F
ifty billion PET bottles are
cycle and deliver them to a crisis
currently circulating in
region upon demand.
Europe alone. Since the
obligatory bottle deposit was
The concept, can be used by
introduced, the return quota
Governments and NGOs to
has exceeded 90 percent. PET
distribute water locally and
bottles can be used as returnable
regionally and to upcycle the
bottles as well as recycled and
bottle as a building material
transformed into a variety of
in combination with found
products - from all forms of PET
materials such as sand, earth
vessels to textiles, such as linings
and natural insulation materials
and fleece fabrics. This process
such as animal hair. The simple
is called “up-cycling”.
water bottle would operate as a
1. The United Bottle project’s working hypothesis is that design should think beyond the product and consider the waste for future use. 2. Filled with local materials, “United Bottle” turns into construction material for temporary or even long-term shelter.
container for the awareness of This intersection of local and
the next crisis.
global circuits forms the basis of
Photographs: courtesy Dirk Hebel & Jörg Stollmann
the project “United Bottle.” The
The form of newly designed
concept is to withdraw the PET
PET/PP bottles can efficiently fit
bottles from their usual recycling
into standardised shipping boxes,
2
3. The United Bottle project designs a second life for an everyday product, building upon local knowledge of construction techniques, patterns of improvisation, and existing uses of consumer waste. 4. The form of newly designed PET bottles can fit into regular boxes or on palettes used for water bottle distribution, and can be joined to build solid walls.
“United Bottle� functions as a solid shelter construction and as a water reservoir.
3
4 WORLD ENDEAVOURS IN SUSTAINABILITY
73
5
6
7
5. The process — from bottle to shelter. 6-7. Taking into consideration the increasing scarcity of resources, United Bottle explores the possibility of additional recycling circuits.
to be used as prefabricated
for prospective use and abuse.
collected and recycled with
building units for the
The PET bottle offers an ideal
the help of a bottle deposit
construction of both temporary
model with which to study and
system. In the case of crisis, the
and permanent structures.
implement this design agenda.
bottles are taken from those circuits and distributed via the
Taken into consideration the
“United Bottle” is a PET water
UNHCR (United Nations High
increasing scarcity of resources,
bottle and prefabricated building
Commissioner or Refugees) into
“United Bottle” suggests
unit. Leading producers of
the respective zones.
additional recycling circuits to
mineral water as well as NGOs
the existing ones. The project’s
use it for their water sales
Local knowledge of building
working hypothesis is that future
or distribution. The bottle is
techniques, improvisation, and
design should think beyond the
integrated into the regular PET
misuse of consumer waste is
product, and design the waste
recycling circuits. It arrives in
employed to build small free-
the project will turn into - in
foiled six-packs on palettes
standing buildings and to extend
order to open up possibilities
at the local stores and is
and repair existing structures.
The redesigned standard PET bottle form allows them to be slotted together into stable, nine-bottle units that a single person can carry easily. Filled with local materials, the bottles become astable construction material for temporary or even long-term shelter. 75 WORLD ENDEAVOURS IN SUSTAINABILITY
“We are seeing new perspective where ecology a are two sides of
ng the birth of a ve of the world, and economics f the same coin.� - Leif Johansson
77
WORLD ENDEAVOURS IN SUSTAINABILITY
TALE OF NE W C ITIE S Sustainable development of cities for improving the quality of life of a population within the capacity of Earth’s finite resources, without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.
79 WORLD ENDEAVOURS IN SUSTAINABILITY
Sustainable Building Practices
A
clear understanding of sustainability can be achieved
This agency or even a group of individuals acts like an anchor in the
primarily from an evaluation of its principal aspects
region and initiates and sustains the process of forming a community
ecological, social and financial. For that, it is critical to break
of sensitive practitioners in the region. This is of particular importance
down ‘sustainability’ into manageable subcomponent, which can be
to the SBP methodology, which needs an initial mobilisation of
objectively assessed. These sub-components are then evaluated as
stakeholders to get together.
measurable performance indicators. The selection of these indicators and their accurate definition is the most challenging aspect of this
II. Regional Workshops:
methodology. The indicators must be context specific and responsive
Stakeholder workshops are structured in a manner so as to achieve a
to the needs of the stakeholders to be effective in the long run.
common understanding of the concept of sustainability and of a process
Therefore, to ensure proper implementation of all imperatives in
for its evolution. Typically, the workshops should consist of a mix of
a sustainable development, stakeholder participation is increasingly
participants to ensure a complete representation of stakeholders in the
recognised as a critical requirement. It enhances the effectiveness of
building process – not only architects and engineers but representation
the entire process by favouring a people-centred definition to the
from builders as users of the building practices and government officers.
indicators of sustainability.
In the rural context, participation from masons, village contractors, village leaders, rural housing officials and participation from the community,
Stakeholder Process
particularly women become critical. Typically, a workshop should consist
Stakeholder workshops mark the first in the Sustainable Building
of 30-35 participants. It has been observed that two workshops are
Practices (SBP) process. This confirms the important characteristics of
optimum to set up a functional regional platform of stakeholders. The
sustainability from the point of view of the stakeholders. The significant
first workshop serves to validate the SBP indicator-based methodology.
advantage that this process has over the other option of an expert-
It involves information sharing and identification, through debate of
drive methodology is that there is a sense of ownership and belief in
critical issues. A list of ecological, social and financial indicators pertaining
the outcome by people. A stakeholder-based process is the only way
to context is usually the key outcome of the workshop. At the second
to ensure commitment to sustainability as the stakeholders themselves
workshop, refinement of indicators takes place. The discussions are
are building professionals.
typically centred on the practical application aspects of the tool for sustainability rating of buildings.
I. Local Implementing Partner:
Author : Pankaj Khanna & Zeenat Niazi, Development Alternative
In a regional methodology of working with stakeholders, it is important
III. Formation of Core Group and Case Studies:
to first identify a local agency, which can serve as an interface for
After the first stakeholder workshop, a core group of 3-5 building
interacting with the community of building professionals in the region.
professionals should be formed which is drawn from among the
participants in the workshop. This group should undertake the task of
indicators are measured qualitatively instead of quantitatively. For
clearly defining methodologies for measuring the indicators and laying
instance, it was found in case of Gujarat, India that, resource efficiency
down a structure for the same, Subsequently, the core group needs
and credit worthiness of built assets are more relevant indicators than
to further refine the evaluation tool by applying it on real building
embodied energy and net investment.
projects in different contexts. In the process, final practical adjustments are made to make the sustainability analysis more sensitive to a
Sustainability Indicators
broader range of conditions.
The process of indicator selection begins with the identification of key concerns for sustainability as perceived by the stakeholders in
IV. Contextual Application
the workshop. They are then clustered and arranged as indicator sets
In the SBP process, depending on the perceptions of the stakeholder
pertaining to ecological, social and financial sustainability.
community, different approaches need to be evolved for measuring indicator in the urban and rural contexts. Previous experience
I. Indicator Selection:
indicates that in the urban context, sustainability of building practice
The prime objective of the first workshop is to identify ecological,
is often looked at from a ‘single building’ point of view. On the other
social and financial indicators. It is believed that by analysing data on
hand, in the rural context, sustainability of ‘ housing projects’ could be
most critical concerns in an informed manner, one can arrive at a fairly
considered important where social dynamics play a prominent role.
accurate and useful judgment of sustainability. These critical concerns
Application of the SBP process in a rural context can also feed into
should dictate the final selection of indications as being most influential
a process of community empowerment. It must therefore be applied
within a family of similar indicators.
through a participatory process involving the community where
The following must be kept in mind while selecting indicators: • The indicators must be limited in number and these should be
A stakeholder based evaluation methology is a practical tool for buildings based on collaborative process of ‘people defining sustainability’
the most representative and influential. Clustering the issue under common heads can easily identify them. It has been observed that 2 – 4 indicators for each of the three group(ecological, social & financial) are an optimum number for a fairly accurate assessment. • Data collection to measure indicators should be done at a practical level. The indicator, for which data collection is impossible or very difficult, must be eliminated or modified. • For an objective assessment, the parameters for measurement should be checked.
81 WORLD ENDEAVOURS IN SUSTAINABILITY
II. Frames of Reference:
groups, which rates the user feedback. Hence, it also involves the
Different contexts with specific characteristics need to be identified for
opinion of a moderator/facilitator who assigns a qualitative value
a critical assessment of sustainability. It emerges from the selection of
to the answers obtained in the survey. It is best for the purpose of
indicators that they acquire different meaning and implications when
measurements to formulate a methodical datasheet of questions to be
placed in diverse contexts. Therefore, frames of reference must be
answered in order to measure an indicator.
adequately chosen so that indicators can be more accurately defined an urban context. For example, residential/institutional/industrial are
IV. Benchmarks for building Practices and Scoring Indicators:
distinct frames of reference in the urban context as opposed to simply
The Practical Evaluation Tool (PET) should serve the purpose of
houses or community buildings in the rural context.
demonstrating a shift towards sustainability if it is used to base
and measured. A broad distinction would be between a rural and
decisions regarding choice of building systems. The shift only becomes
III. How to Measure Indicators:
clear when a comparative evaluation is articualted. Benchmarks are
Evaluation is an important pre-requisite for indicator selection. It must
established in an evolution process as a reference point against which
be kept in mind that sustainability evaluation should avoid complicated
values can be compared and understood practically. These should
mathematical calculation required for pinpoint accuracy. However, it
be clearly defined by the stakeholders judging by the type of building
is critical that each indicator be defined accurately to specify what it
practices. It is advisable to identify most common practices in each
sets out to measure and what it excludes from its scope. Accordingly,
frame of reference so the sustainability advantages are clearly visible
units of measurement can be derived from indicator definitions. For
when a PET evaluation is carried out.
instance, ‘energy’ as an ecological indicator can include embodied energy of building materials used in the construction or may include
Bandwidth of Building Performance
energy invested in a building over its lifetime considering material
In a SBP project, a bandwidth of indicator values is evolved signifying
salvaged at the end of lifetime of the building. The ecological and
the best and worst building practice with respect to sustainability. This
financial indicators can be measured objectively as they rely on
is based on the prevailing trends in building practice as observed by
factual and numerical data. The social indicators have an element
the core team members in their work experience. The bandwidth
of subjectivity because they are based on small surveys of the user
extremes correspond to the two end points of a scale (1 to 10 in this
workshop, the PET can be applied to case studies and this exercise
The ecological, social and financial indicators are assessed and defined in order to enable more people to initiate and replicate this methology
should be documented in details.
Future Action The SBP process can potentially be promoted and adopted effectively through different channels. In the urban context, there is good scope for initiating this process with decision-making bodies. For instance, the principal concept of a people-based process can be a strong driver for incorporating sustainability issues in urban development processes.
case). It should be noted that the two extremes of a bandwidth may
For the large volume of builder promoted construction, the PET is
not necessarily correspond to an actual building in the region but are
an invaluable device to create and strengthen a ‘sustainable’ brand of
informed projections based on prevailing building practices.
buildings. It is also important to make students of architecture more
Measured values of the building being evaluated are plotted on a scale
aware and sensitive to a design based SBP guidelines. In the rural
depending on where they fall in the bandwidth established for that
context, the SBP process is of immense significance to village level
particular indicator. Within this bandwidth of building performance,
governing bodies and community based organisations (CBO). Training
indictor values corresponding to the most common practice can also
modules for implementing the SBP methodology can be formed for
be identified. Using this instrument, a comparative evaluation between
CBO’s and NGO’s for them to incorporate in their activities. It can also
different technologies is also possible. One can also consider two different
be used by governments to develop guidelines for rural housing and to
building technologies or design alternatives at the design stage to make an
evaluate their housing projects.
assessment of the sustainability of the building. For the purpose of global sharing and dissemination of the SBP It is important that the stakeholders apply the SBP process on real
process, the PET can also be used as an on-line tool for sustainability
building projects. A preliminary application should be carried out after
rating. A web environment provides a suitable platform or online
the first workshop for clarity on practical considerations regarding
workshops where practitioners from different parts of the world can
the use of such a tool. After the indicators get finalised in the second
share building practices and assess them.
83 WORLD ENDEAVOURS IN SUSTAINABILITY
An Ecology of City, Enviornment & Culture
1
The iconic development designed by the internationally-renowned Japanese architect late Dr Kisho Kurokawa will foster cutting-edge research to create next-generation technologies that will spur the creation of future industries and inspire the world’s future lifestyles with an aim to reduce environment impact.
G
reen buildings are not
strategy for the 21st century, the
a process of reducing
Government of China proposed
environmental impact.
to follow the economic
It is rethinking the relationship
development of Shanghai
between humans and nature
Shenzhen and other coastal
and is a holistic approach that
regions with the development
incorporates environmental
of the interiors of the country,
concerns into the design process
particularly the western regions.
from the start. Late Japanese architect Dr. Kisho Kurokawa had
Located about 1,000km
nurtured a dream of planning
southwest of Beijing, Zhengzhou
nature inspired eco-cities, which
is considered an important core
have a symbiotic relationship
city that adjoins the western
with nature.
part of the country. The masterplan concept is based
Photographs: courtesy Kisho Kurokawa Architects
Zhengzhou, a 3,500-year-old
on creating an environmentally
city with a population of about
sensitive city through preserving
two million, is the capital of
and nurturing the region’s
the Henan Province. As its
natural water-bodies. The
1. Technopolis, with its distinctive and futuristic façade, its innovative engineering in construction, and its state-of-the-art infrastructure, is a legacy of Dr Kurokawa’s genius. 2 & 3. Models of Technopolis 4. The development features a unique double-skin structure, which will help to cool the buildings by cutting out solar radiation with the use of glass curtain walls. This will help reduce air-conditioning costs by 30-35 percent. 5. Narrow street on the ground surface are cracks (void spaces) of atriums opening to the level zero. Natural light reaches underground level zero through the cracks in the ground. 6. The buildings of Eco-Tec City achieve column free space thanks to the core columns and the super slab.
2
3
The structure of the building is the most advanced super structure consisting of a core column and cantilevered super slab.
4
5
6
85 WORLD ENDEAVOURS IN SUSTAINABILITY
The roof of the building is made of solar panels that are half transparent and symbolise an Eco-building that uses solar energy. By allowing part of the light to pass through, it supports the growth of trees in the Sky Garden
scheme proposes preserving all
urban functions such as business,
34 rivers of the Zhengzhou City
research, education, culture,
region and planting vegetation
commerce and housing. The
along their banks to create river
cityscape of the new urban
parks that will form a network of
centre, reflected in the water,
eco-corridors. These
is expected to send the world
eco-corridors will inturn form
a unique impression of the new
a network of independent
Zhengzhou of the 21st century.
ecosystems to preserve
The International Tourism
bio-diversity. The scheme also
and Housing Centre on the
proposes using an existing fish
peninsula, which will protrude
breeding pond to form China’s
into Dragon Lake, will have a
largest artificial lake with a surface
pond at its centre. A ring city
area of 800 hectares. The entire
will be located here, which
master plan of the city has two
will include an international
nodes: the core area and a
resort hotel, a convention hotel
sub-core around Dragon Lake.
provided with an international
Roof Structure Steel Beam H-300x300
Super Slab Steel Truss (the height is 4.0m) Composed of H-600x600
Sub Structure Steel Girder H-250x125
Sub Structure Steel Column 190.7
Super Slab Steel Truss (the height is 2.5m) Composed of H-600x600
Super Slab Steel Truss (the height is 4.0m) Composed of H-600x600
conference centre and reception This new urban area will be
halls, an apartment hotel for
formed as the central core of a
extended stays, a service hotel
larger region, combining diverse
linked to the hotel and housing
Super Column SRC Column 1000x1000 3000 with a built-in H-600x600
7
Super Column RC Bearing Wall t=200mm 400mm
LIVING DINING BED ROOM 1 BED ROOM 2 KITCHEN
PRIVATE GARDEN
8
10
11
TECHNOPOLIS
SKY GARDEN APARTMENT
7. The whole building will function as an ecosystem, and strive to strike
for foreigners, all arranged along
as recycled wastewater. The
the loop road.
rainwater is collected from the
(MAISONETTE TYPE)
sidewalks and used along with
a balance between the organic and inorganic elements so as to make the
Green buildings incorporate
the recycled wastewater. The
materials that promote
double skin sharply reduces the
dimensionally layering differing
environmentally-sensitive industry.
penetration of heat from the
elements (residential, office, public
The roof of the building is
outside. The road pavement is
services, commercial). A Layered City
made of solar panels that are
rainwater permeable that allows
half transparent and symbolise
part of rainwater, not recycled,
Horizontal Zoning.
an eco-building that uses solar
to return to the ground for
9. The master plan concept calls for
energy. By allowing part of
maintaining eco-systems.
high-density narrow streets for
the light to pass through, it
building work like a living system. 8. Eco-Tec City is created by multi-
is created by a new method called Vertical Zoning instead of conventional
pedestrians.
supports the growth of trees in
The construction of this
solar panels that are half transparent
the Sky Garden. The garbage
eco-friendly city – a city that will
and symbolise an eco-building that uses
produced from residential zones
be in a symbiotic relationship
solar energy.
is composted or processed to
with the natural environment
form solid fuel. While the former
of its rivers, with the artificial
outside air is discharged from the top
is used to fertilise the trees in
lake and with the 3,500-year-
by a rising air current inside the double
the Sky Garden, the latter is used
old Central Chinese cultural
skin from bottom of double skin curtain
as fuel for home generators.
traditions of the old city will be
Used water is purified for use
completed in 2015.
10. The roof of the building is made of
11. When sunlight strikes the outside glass of the double skin, the warm
wall with zeolite filter.
9
87 WORLD ENDEAVOURS IN SUSTAINABILITY
The Built Textbook
1
IslandWood project is an ecosystem designed for children to see and feel many of the sustainable technologies using the environment as a classroom.
A
n environmental learning
is as close to invisible as you
centre—nestled into a
can make a six-acre, 18-building
rustic 250-acre nature
campus, along with various other
preserve – plays a dual role as
structures (tree houses, a bird
a symbol and as a teaching tool.
blind, a helter, a greenhouse, a
IslandWood was first dreamed
suspension footbridge) out in the
up in 1997, when Seattle’s
woods. Some of the buildings are
the room from the outdoors
A differential outlook at the
Debbi Brainerd started thinking
situated to hide them from one
viewed through the window.
way common materials have
about how to address two
another, and all of the buildings
IslandWood’s architecture is like
been used or treated seems to
apparently unrelated problems:
are made of materials that so
“a textbook.” The buildings are
make the first difference – glass
environmental degradation and
closely match the hues of their
a meta-environment: they are
walls for solar/light access
shortfalls in inner-city education.
natural surroundings that they
not only sustainable, they are
and structural unadorned
In 1998 she and her husband,
serve as camouflage.
about being sustainable. There
wood, which synchronises
doesn’t seem to be any element
with the outdoor
Paul, purchased a parcel of
Photographs: courtesy Mithun Architects
1. IslandWood’s mission is to provide exceptional learning experiences and to inspire lifelong environmental and community stewardship. 2. A 92-foot, 120-year-old salvaged wood beam serves as a member in the primary roof truss of the main centre. 3. Section through the Learning Centre 4. The Islandwood territory.
undeveloped land on Bainbridge
IslandWood was Washington
to the architecture that isn’t
nomenclature, make frames
and started planning to make
State’s first LEED Gold project,
making a statement about itself.
ready to receive the recycled
spectacular, harmless use of
and the buildings’ interiors look,
The campus is exclusively vehicle
wood chips and chunks that
their acquisition.
at first blush, decidedly odd. Their
free. A natural gas pump fuels
match the riotous random
walls are all glass and unadorned
gas-powered vehicles, though the
pattern of the ferns, salal,
Now in its sixth year of
wood; so natural is this interior
first vehicle for the campus is a
tree trunks, and forest-floor
operation, the learning centre
that it is hard to distinguish
hybrid car.
detritus visible outside.
Sustainable design features such as the use of passive solar design, recycled materials, composting toilets, on-site wastewater treatment systems, rainwater collection, and solar photovoltaic system illustrate various ways to reduce human impacts. 3
2
4
89 WORLD ENDEAVOURS IN SUSTAINABILITY
MAIN CENTRE (LEED Gold) • Energy efficient T-5 fluorescent lighting in offices. • 92-foot, 120-year-old salvaged wood beam serves as member in primary roof truss. • Salvaged fir flooring in Great Hall. • Skylight and mechanically operated louvers provide solar heating and natural ventilation. • Retractable canopies to lower summer heat gain. • 50% recycled content carpeting in offices.
GENERAL OVERVIEW • Solar meadows and building orientations maximise passive solar gain. High performance windows optimise solar heat gain and reduce energy consumption. • All concrete contains 50% flyash substitution for cement. • Natural ventilation replaces air conditioning. Buildings designed using computer modeling to locate window openings and operable skylights for maximum air circulation. • Walk-off mats at entry doors are made from recycled tires. • Most building materials are left untreated to reduce off-gassing of volatile organic compounds. • Roof rainwater used for landscape irrigation and boot washing. • Wood harvested from solar meadows used for 50% of exterior siding and 95% of interior trim. • More than 57% of wood products are Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) Certified. • Low VOC paints, finishes, sealants and adhesives throughout project. • Furniture made by local craftsmen from site harvested and salvaged materials. • Sustainable features designed for educational interpretation throughout project.
Stephanie Bower Lynn Shimamoto
5
DINING HALL (LEED ® Gold) • Solar hot water provides 50% of annual demand in kitchen, restrooms and laundry. • Photovoltaic-powered ventilation fans • Bathrooms feature recycled glass tiles in floor and as wainscoting. • Waterless urinals reduce water consumption.
LEARNING STUDIOS (LEED ® Gold) • Photovoltaic panels (23 KW) provide 50% of lighting and electrical needs. • Composting toilets eliminate water use. • Sustainability classroom features digital metering to allow students to monitor their energy and water consumption throughout campus. • Each classroom features a different renewable resource flooring: cork, bamboo, recycled rubber, and recycled-content concrete. • Bathroom stall partitions made from recycled plastic. • Each classroom countertop features a different sustainable surface: recycled-content concrete, recycled yogurt container composite, or soybean/ sunflower seed bio-composite.
CREATIVE ARTS STUDIO • R-45 walls constructed from straw bales. • High efficiency masonry heater provides alternative heat source. • Skylights and bay windows provide natural daylighting.
SLEEPING LODGES • Solar hot water system provides 50% of annual hot water demand. • Throw rugs in bunkrooms are woven from upholstery remnants and discarded clothing. • All wastewater is naturally treated with on-site constructed wetlands. • Sustainable flooring materials include cork and salvaged fir planks.
LIVING MACHINE TTM • On-site treatment system provides tertiary treatment of wastewater. Reclaimed water used for low-flush toilets and potential landscape irrigation.
7
5. The building programme and its green impact. 6. The green house in the foreground (Living Machine) serves as a wastewater treatment facility. Water from toilets or irrigation is filtered and oxygenated. In the background the Learning Studio’s butterfly roof is precisely angled to capture the winter-solstice sun. 7. Sketch of treehouses - the life of treehouses are enhanced with bolting and collars.
The buildings are modelled for
milled to provide all interior trim
natural ventilation and solar
and 50% of exterior siding more
orientation using T.A.S. (Thermal
than half of the wood products
Analysis System) software. The
used were certified according
classroom buildings get additional
to Forest Stewardship Council
heat from high-efficient in-floor
(FSC) standards.
hydronic heating. Photovoltaic
Strict clearing limits were enforced around all structures. All concrete contains flyash in place of half of the cement. Interior finishes were omitted where possible, and low-emission stains, paints, sealants, and adhesives were used wherever finishes were necessary.
system provides half of the
Thus, the biggest learning centre
classroom energy. Operable
IslandWood provides is in its
awnings shade dining and office
vision statement that propels its
spaces while T-5 fluorescent
visitors to envision a future in
lamps light offices and classrooms. which all people view themselves These strategies work in tandem as lifelong learners, and share an
6
with prioritising natural over
extraordinary bond of stewardship
electrical light. The on-site wood
for the environment, for their
from the solar meadows was
communities and for each other. WORLD ENDEAVOURS IN SUSTAINABILITY
91
Prototype
1
Dongtan city by Arup may sound like a futuristic plan from a Scifi film, but it is the world’s first eco-city that won’t produce environment harming carbon emissions — the city will make full use of the latest in alternative energies.
Photographs: courtesy Arup
C
hina’s rapid
agriculture and used to create
planning into a blueprint for the
transformation period
a buffer zone of ‘managed’
future planning of Chinese cities.
is enabling amazing
wetland between the city and
breakthroughs. While politicians
the ‘natural’ wetland.
and citizens of the world keep
Minimising the environmental impact of all this development
avoiding the key challenge of
Dongtan will produce its own
is essential to the project’s
transforming our resource-
energy from wind, solar, bio-fuel
mission. Sustainable
depleting cities into sustainable
and recycled city waste. Clean
development runs through
organisms, China has taken the
technologies such as hydrogen
practically every element of
necessary step into a new era
fuel cells will power public
Arup’s master plan, which
of urban development: Building
transport. A network of cycle
is a work in progress. Public
Sustainable Cities.
and footpaths will help the city
transportation will be plentiful
achieve close to zero vehicle
and encouraged. Many streets
Dongtan is located on the third
emission. Farmland within the
will be arranged as service
largest island in China at the
Dongtan site will use organic
roads, not through roads, to
mouth of the Yangtze River.
farming methods to grow food.
promote walking, biking, and
The 86sqkm site is adjacent to
It will be a city where people
public transportation. Cars and
a wetland of global importance.
will be able to live and work in
trucks will use hydrogen or fuel
The urban area will occupy
a high quality environment. The
cells, rather than fossil fuels.
just one third of the site with
intention is to evolve Arup’s
Buildings will harness energy
the remaining land retained for
sustainable urban design and
from wind turbines, photovoltaic
1. Dongtan city will be sustainable not just environmentally, but also socially, economically and culturally. 2. The cities are planned to be ecologically friendly, with zero-greenhouse-emission transit and complete self-sufficiency in water and energy, together with the use of zero energy building principles.
2
Dongtan will be self-supporting, generating all its energy needs, including transport, from renewables and will have zero emissions from the tailpipes of vehicles. The city’s design will aim to prevent pollutants reaching the adjacent wetland areas. WORLD ENDEAVOURS IN SUSTAINABILITY
93
3
The city region will supply the bulk of its energy from wind turbines, bio-fuels and recycling organic material. A combination of traditional and innovative building technologies will reduce energy requirements associated with heating and cooling of buildings by up to 70%.
3. Dongtan proposes to have only green transport movements along its coastline. People will arrive at the coast and leave their cars behind, traveling along the shore as pedestrians, cyclists or on sustainable public transport vehicles.
panels, and converted waste. They will also be constructed using organic and biodegradable materials, while refuse can be either converted into energy or turned into compost via a machine called an anaerobic digester. The city will be built using a strict ecological footprint analysis, which measures how many resources each inhabitant consumes. Dongtan will become a model for future development in China. WORLD ENDEAVOURS IN SUSTAINABILITY
95
Urban Oasis
1
Senscity Paradise by Behnisch Architekten is a large-scale inhabitable educational tool capable of demonstrating nature and natural laws where visitors will be able to directly experience how the forces of the inhospitable local climate - sun, wind, and extreme temperature ranges - can be utilised, through a progressive, sustainable design approach, in the midst of the desert.
Photographs: courtesy Behnish Architekten
T
he Senscity Paradise
its surroundings. A variety of
Universe combines
spatial links – green areas,
elements of a typical
plazas, an artificial lake, and
theme park including a
meandering paths – will make
toy gallery, a theatre,
the complex easy to navigate.
auditoria, and restaurants, with landscape and garden
The park’s signature will be
features, exhibition spaces,
iconic “desert flowers”. These
and a series of playgrounds.
light-weight metal structures (similar to those used in the
The architects have designed
airplane industry) up to 120
an energy-efficient and
feet high and 300 feet wide
enjoyable environment,
will protect the landscape
rising like a green oasis from
(and visitors) from the desert
the Nevada desert. The
sun. Evaporating water on
“architectural landscape” is the
the structures’ expansive
central feature of the design,
“leaves” will cool the air; their
formed and modulated using
enormous height will generate
“natural” barriers to separate
a down-draft airflow bringing
and protect the park from
cool air streams into the
1. The concept for Senscity project is to create a leisure park for families that also serves as a large-scale inhabitable educational tool capable of demonstrating nature and natural laws. 2. Concept mechanism of 10-storey “trees” - the signature feature of Senscity Paradise Universe. 3. An integrated design process between the architect and the structural and mechanical engineers led to the development of a series of innovative, multi-purpose “flower-like” structures which will span large parts of the park, providing both shade and cool air.
Some of the alloy-and-fabric structures will act as giant coolers - water circulating through them will vaporise to create cold downdrafts that blanket the 150-acre complex; others will bristle with photovoltaic cells and wind turbines, potentially generating more than 20,000 megawatt-hours annually.
3 2
97 WORLD ENDEAVOURS IN SUSTAINABILITY
4. The leaves are envisaged as energy collectors as well: photovoltaic cells or solar collectors within their construction are capable of transforming radiation into electricity or heat. 5. Beyond its sustainable makeup and extreme conditions, Senscity follows a recent trend of multi-use leisure parks, which combine family entertainment adorned with a convention centre, theatre, restaurants, playgrounds, and garden features, as well as a variety of shops and toy galleries.
public spaces, creating a very comfortable environment. In addition, the “leaf� surfaces will be cooled down by cold air on the inside, adding radiant cooling. The leaves can also be used as energy collectors. Photovoltaic cells or solar collectors can transform radiation into electricity or heat. A vertical axis wind turbine in the centre of a flower could transform wind into electricity. When done correctly, the affect can be overwhelming.
4
5
99 WORLD ENDEAVOURS IN SUSTAINABILITY
Grassroot Initiative
1
The Vedaville Project, envisaged as a statement is sustainable human settlement design, that re-examines the very concept of sustainable development with respect to modern urban planning.
Photographs: courtesy Anangpur Building Centre
U
nsustainability begins from the very moment the first brick is laid or a human settlement plan is developed. Not to say that one should therefore stop building. One has to — but can nature’s bounties be used in a more appropriate manner? Can
as a statement in Sustainable Human Settlement Design.
human settlements be planned in a more humane manner respecting the environment and the needs of man? Can human settlement design be seen as a partnership between man and nature? These principles were applied in the Vedaville Project in Jamaica. Spread over an area of 1200 acres, this project provided for an ideal testing ground for agenda not being merely Utopian. The Vedaville project is envisaged
Architect of Anangpur Building Centre, the Vedaville Sustainable Township embodies all the principal building applications developed by the centre. The variety of building types ranging from simple single-storyed residential buildings, multi-storeyed dormitory buildings, playful primary school structures, to large-span hotel and sports facilities have given the architects the opportunity to employ a
Rich in tradition, Jamaica has all the natural elements in its favour, notwithstanding its proximity to the most developed nation. The brain child of Anil Laul, Principal
1. Vedaville Jamaica development project — the re-housing of slum dwellers carried out in a more affordable and sustainable manner. 2. The project provides sufficient infrastructure and dealing with the problem of scarce land supply.
large array of building systems. The stress has been on efficiency of the structural materials, structural systems and overall on a cost effective and appropriate building proposal. The entire building construction activity will be conducted using materials and labour that will be local, thereby providing employment opportunities to the locals. Apart from this, the strategy also helps in reducing overheads of transport, taxes, and large expenditures that would normally be associated with such large development projects. Such a sustainable proposition
aims to demonstrate the viable alternatives to the conventional construction methods and systems which not only add tremendous loads and tilt the balance of the environment and economy of the region, but also fail to perform as efficient building systems. The environment also contributes to the sustainable factor in this project. The soil of Vedaville is largely limestone, which provides for excellent natural water filteration. The additional lining of the leech pits with charcoal, activated charcoal or a mix of
101 WORLD ENDEAVOURS IN SUSTAINABILITY
2
3 – 6. The project was conceptualised respecting the social fabric of Jamaica. Construction methodology was simplified so that that it can be imparted to the local masons with a two-week training.
By growing wide leafed plants like Banana and Papaya a ‘High-rate Evapotranspiration’ system would be achieved. The lengthy capillary-like tissue structure of these plants encourages the rapid absorption of water and nutrients. These trees use undigested grease as nutrients. 6
3
4
5
charcoal and lime provides for the best filtration system. To add to that effect, the Vedaville property stands on the ‘Gibraltar-Bonnygate limestone formation that functions as the principal aquifer in the area. Scientific data also proves that pure drinking water can be sourced from the ground safely at a distance of only 30 metres from the point of disposal. The houses were built in accordance with the traditional texts, which prescribe a square plot than the present day rectangular plot. The clusters
themselves, by consensus, determine use of other courts, whether it be for growing flowers, exotic herbs or organic vegetables, in other words produce that can serve the needs of Vedaville. The Vedaville Sustainable Township establishes the fact that one has to go beyond just the parcel of land to be built upon and examine the planning principles that are faulty right from inception. This is the most critical area of intervention if at all we are to think of Appropriate Architecture. 3 WORLD ENDEAVOURS IN SUSTAINABILITY
103
Carbon Clean
1
Masdar City is an ambitious project which will be the latest of a small number of highly planned, specialised, research and technology-intensive municipalities that incorporate a sustainable living environment.
Photographs: courtesy Foster and Partner, Nigel Young
T
he cleanest city in the
be a model for sustainable
entire world will take root
architecture. The vision behind
in Abu Dhabi, a place
this unprecedented effort is based
best known for its oil. Masdar,
on 10 broad-based principles
an initiative by the Government
of sustainable living. The 10
of Abu Dhabi, relies entirely
principals are (1) zero CO2
on solar energy and other
emissions, (2) zero waste, (3)
renewable energy sources, with
sustainable transportation, (4)
a sustainable, zero-carbon,
use of eco-conscious materials,
zero-waste ecology. Masdar
(5) sustainable food supply, (6)
(which means “the source”
sustainable water, (7) protection
in Arabic) will be capable of
of habitats and wildlife, (8)
housing 47,500 people. Initiated
integration of local culture and
in 2006, the project is estimated
heritage, (9) equity and fair
to cost US$22 billion and take
trade, and (10) overall health and
some eight years to build.
happiness of its residents.
The vision of the city, designed
A solar-photovoltaic power plant
by Foster and Partners, is to
will deliver energy to buildings.
1. The Vision of Masdar (which means “the source” in Arabic) city is to be a model for sustainable architecture. 2. Satellite image of Masdar city. 3. Masdar will employ a variety of renewable power sources which will supply power for all other construction activity.
2
Wind farms will be established outside the city’s perimeter, capable of producing up to 20 megawatts, and the city intends to utilise geothermal power as well. In addition, Masdar plans to host the world’s largest hydrogen power plant. 3 WORLD ENDEAVOURS IN SUSTAINABILITY
105
4
5
4. No cars will be allowed in the city. People will get around through an electric light-rail system that will be linked to the centre of Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates. 5. Masdar City will be the home of the Masdar Institute of Science and Technology, which backers hope will attract some of the best academics from the around the world.
Builders also envision using solar
linked to the centre of Abu
innovations that can lend to a
canopies that provide shade,
Dhabi, the capital of the United
sustainable way of living for its
as well as power. The city will
Arab Emirates. A desalination
residents, and for the rest of the
be placed to take advantage
facility will be 80 percent more
world. In the future, fuels such
of the cool sea breezes, while
efficient than existing plants, and
as solar, wind, hydro etc. may
a perimeter wall around the
all wastewater will be purified
become available world wide,
entire city will protect buildings
and recycled to grow plants that
but Abu Dhabi is positioning
from the hot desert air and
could be used for biofuels.
itself as the centre of the next
noise from the nearby Abu
generation energy industry. And
Dhabi airport. No cars will be
The Masdar initiative is Abu
with Masdar it will be possible
allowed in the city. People will
Dhabi’s way of investing in
to do so with a carbon footprint
get around through an electric
their future, experimenting
that is as white as the colour of
light-rail system that will be
with technology and business
the dresses that its local wear.
107 WORLD ENDEAVOURS IN SUSTAINABILITY
Reclaim
1
Habitat Technology Group (HTG) initiated a reconstruction project from a participatory and long-term development perspective within a small tsunami affected community by building a low-cost, appropriate environment sensitive technology.
V
eerabagupathy is a
destroyed were the houses,
beautiful, small village
mostly huts built with soil bricks
in Kanyakumari District,
walls called vettuckals with
about 12 kilometers from the
thatched roofs. To reconstruct
town of Nagercoil. What is
their life the villagers purchased
unique about it is that although
land and approached Habitat
this is a coastal village, the
Technology Group (HTG), a
main occupation here is not
non-governmental organisation
fishing. The villagers, about 76
providing architectural solutions
families, are mostly daily-wage
using appropriate building
village – affected areas and
they wanted from the various
labourers engaged as masons,
technologies – the only
some of the surrounding areas.
design options.
carpenters, farm-workers, soil/
precondition being that the
In addition, HTG held many
stonecutters etc.
building be constructed solely
consultations with the local
What really sets these
with environment sensitive
community for suggestions
houses apart from the other
The Tsunami of 26 December
technologies. The project started
and considerations in designing
conventional houses is that they
2004 did not spare this village.
in June 2005.
the layout plan of the houses.
use two low-cost techniques in
They decided that the houses
their construction – the rat trap
th
In Veerabagupathy, seven lives
Photographs: courtesy Habitat Technology Group
1. The reconstruction project of Veerabagupathy can serve as a reference and experiment for other communities. 2 - 7. The images of the village before and after Tsunami.
were lost and quite a few
The first step was a village
be almost similar in design and
bond (RTB) and the filler slab
people injured. But what it really
mapping exercise of the whole
each could opt for the typology
technology. With this technique
2
The masons were all from the local community trained by a team of qualified masons of HTG to construct using these techniques. At the end of this project, these teams will be able to use these techniques and carry out construction of quality, independently.
4
5
7
there is reduction in cost of the
the project was sponsored for 76
wall by 25%. Also the reduced
houses and only 58 houses have
number of joints reduces
been constructed, the balance
the mortar consumption. No
amount is being planned to be
plastering of the outside face
utilised to provide solar streetlights
is required and the wall usually
for the village, and additional
is quite aesthetically pleasing
features to the houses like water
and the air gaps created within
harvesting, outdoor kitchen slabs,
the wall help make the house
smokeless chullahs and outdoor
thermally comfortable. In
toilets with individual or collective
summer, the temperature inside
septic tanks.
the house is usually atleast 5 degrees lower that the outside
This reconstruction project
ambient temperature and vice
can serve as a reference
versa in winter.
and experiment for other communities. Detailed
3
6
Other features that are used
documentation will help
in the houses here are stone
demonstrate the technical and
foundations with a concrete tie
financial credibility of such a
beam at plinth level, pre cast
contextualised processes of
cement doors and window frames,
rebuilding that is participative and
brick bat flooring and no internal
integrated with environmental,
plaster but pointing is done. As
social and economic issues.
109 WORLD ENDEAVOURS IN SUSTAINABILITY
“Only after the la cut down. Only a has been poison the last fish has Only then will you cannot be
ast tree has been after the last river oned. Only after as been caught. ou find that money be eaten.� - Cree Indian Prophecy
111
WORLD ENDEAVOURS IN SUSTAINABILITY
S U S TAINABILITY AN IN D IAN P ER S P E C TI V E
An understanding of the principles of Sustainability & Sustainable Environments in the Indian context.
Researched by Parul Zaveri & Nimish Patel, Panika, Ahmedabad, India
113 WORLD ENDEAVOURS IN SUSTAINABILITY
For how many centuries has India demonstrated sustainable living patterns?
Architecture and Dwelling Levels
16th Century: Raja Mahal, Orchha
18th Century: Hawa Mahal, Jaipur
18th Century: Patwon-kiHaveli, Jaisalmer
Cut out of a natural rock face,
13th-18th Century: Padmanabhapuram Palace
was almost a city in a building
a faรงade with stone jallis and
is a large family mansion
the craftsmen build
is a response to the hot &
format, with climate responsive
jharokhas for the viewing of the
where the upper rooms have
top-down. It did not require
humid climate with its use
features like courtyards,
ceremonial processions, and
balconies and carved screens
any external building material
of the planning principles,
underground halls and
also to receive that
perforating the walls to funnel
to be transported to the site.
courtyards, ventilation systems
networking bridges connecting
available breeze.
the slightest breeze and provide
and roof forms.
the spaces.
8th Century: Kailash Temple, Ellora
visual contact with the street or courtyard below.
115 WORLD ENDEAVOURS IN SUSTAINABILITY
At Urban & Rural Levels Street Scapes
Water as a Community Reserve
Community Housing of Indigenous Origin
15th Century: Adalaj Stepwell
Bhungas of Kutch
Monasteries of Ladakh
The Chaupads are the
9th Century: Abhaneri Kunda
have survived an earthquake
built respecting the terrain,
route was a pained intervention
intersections of the city’s main
near Jaipur harvested rainwater
near Ahmedabad, similarly
measuring 7.9 on the Richter
were almost like a village within
that survives even today as the
streets that become public
for the community, and allowed
has been the source of water
scale.
itself.
temple town’s arterial traffic
squares and nodal points of
the people to reach the water
for villagers, with easy access
network.
reference, and continue to
even at its lowest level.
even up to its lowest level of
10th Century: Purl
18th Century: Jaipur
The processional Ratha yatra
serve a similar purpose almost 300 years later.
reserves.
At Regional & Settlement Planning Levels
16th Century: Amber Fort
Fatehpur Sikri
had rain water harvesting
16th Century: Pichhola lake of Udaipur
was one of the first planned
techniques for sustaining a
was created by making 1km
could sustain a siege for more
vacated because water-supply
residential university township.
township.
long embankment wall that
than 2 years by trapping its own
was not part of its planning
demonstrations of town
trapped 250sqkm of catchment
rainwater without affecting the
processes.
planning principles like street,
area. The lake meant for only
water or food supply for its
water and waste management
10,000 people, even today
inhabitants.
networks.
continues to serve as a primary
decision to begin with, did not
source of water supply for its
survive.
3rd Century BC: Mohenjodaro, Lothal & Dholavira
6-8th Century AD: Nalanda
14th Century: Hampl
were the first planned urban
of 16 th century had to be
What was an unsustainable
4,500,000 residents and 800,000 annual visitors.
How many unsustainable decisions are we taking today, which may lead to similar consequences as Fatehpur Sikri? Are we prepared for the consequences to be handed over to the next generation?
117 WORLD ENDEAVOURS IN SUSTAINABILITY
Initiators in the field
Mahatma Gandhi Laurie Baker Joseph Allen Stein Nari Gandhi Chamanlal Gupta Vinod Gupta Revathi Kamath
Organisations working towards sustainability in the built environment: • Alternative Technology Foundation (Alt. Tech), Bangalore • ASTRA, Bangalore • Auroville Building Centre, Auroville • Barefoot Architects of Tilonia • Central Building Research Institute, Roorkee • Centre for Science and Environment, Delhi • Centre for Scientific Research, Auroville Gautam Bhatia, Delhi
• Development Alternatives, Delhi • Gram Vikas, Bhubaneshwar • Habitat Technology Group, Trivandrum • Housing and Urban Development Corporation, Delhi
Anupama Kundoo, Auroville
• Hunnarshala, Bhuj • The Energy Research Institute, Delhi • Vastu Shilp Foundation, Ahmedabad …and many others
Chitra Vishwanathan, Bangalore
Anil Laul, Delhi
Shibani & Kamal Sagar (Total Environment), Bangalore
Individual architects whose focus is primarily on sustainability • Anil Laul, Delhi • Anupama Kundoo, Auroville • Arvind Krishnan, Delhi • Ashok B. Lal, Delhi • B.V.Doshi, Ahmedabad • Chitra Vishwanathan, Bangalore
Jaisim - Fountainhead, Bangalore
• Gautam Bhatia, Delhi • Jaisim-Fountainhead, Bangalore • Latha Raman and Jaigopal Rao (Inspiration), Kochi • Leo Pereira, Ahmedabad • Parul Zaveri & Nimish Patel ( Abhikram/Panika), Ahmedabad Parul Zaveri & Nimish Patel, Abhikram
• Sanjay Prakash, Delhi • Shibani & Kamal Sagar (Total Environment), Bangalore • Shirish Beri, Kolhapur
Sanjay Prakash, Delhi
…and many others
119 WORLD ENDEAVOURS IN SUSTAINABILITY
Desert Resort Location: Mandawa Architect: Revathi Kamath Year of Completion: 1986
Golconde House Location: Pondicherry Architect: Antonin Raymond Years of Design - Construction: 1937–1948 T-Zed Homes Location: Bangalore Architect: Sanjay Prakash Year of Completion: Ongoing
Works of Impact
India International Centre Location: New Delhi Architect: Joseph Allen Stein Year of Completion: 1962
Global Pagoda (Vipassana Centre) Location: Mumbai Architect: Pervez Dumasia Year of Completion: Ongoing
Centre for Development Studies Location: Trivandrum Architect: Laurie Baker Year of Completion: 1972
CONTEMPORARY EXPRESSIONS OF SUSTAINABILITY /GREEN BUILDINGS IN INDIA
What are sustainable / ‘Green’ Buildings? Sustainable buildings in recent past have also begun to be called ‘GREEN’ buildings, so much so that it has now emerged as a brand name.
From a broader prespective almost all buildings till the 19th century can be considered as primarily sustainable or ‘Green’ buildings. It was during the 20th century, with the rapid strides made by the industrialisation in almost all sectors, an increased pace of development and the emergence of a variety of new products and processes that the application of principles of sustainability seems to have take a backseat. A resurgence towards the end of the century and has since gained momentum.
In the broadest sense Sustainable or ‘Green’ Buildings are: • Environment Friendly • Contextual • Resource Conserving • Energy Efficient • Thermally Comfortable • Ones which make use of renewable resources • Ones which avoid the use of unsustainable building materials
In the process, and the yet to be emerged clarity on the understanding what constitutes ‘Green’building, the unsustainable buildings have been surfacing under the ‘Green’ banner. Their performance in many cases has not lived up to the expectations. This process contributes to help us refine the definition of sustainable buildings in different regions of India.
The present scenario is continuing to throw up a wide range of interpretations of what constitutes a ‘Green’ building. This process is still in a fluid state because the understanding of what is ‘Green’ varies from country to country…region to region...and context to context. This has led to an added confusion, particularly for India, since the definition of US Green Building Council has been one of the early influences on the present trend of architecture in India.
Many individuals and practices, agencies and organisations, corporate and administrative bodies have been attempting to break grounds in evolving, repeating and replicating these sustainable principles by making this cause a focus of their attention.
In a few years only, the profession has realised that India needs to evolve its own definition of what can be called a ‘Green’ building in each of the varying contexts of its regions. This translates to that what is sustainable and ‘Green’ for the Deccan plateau may not be for the North Eastern region or vice versa. Also with the increasing awareness towards global warming warnings, observed climatic changes increased natural disasters, there has begun a process of questioning what constitutes ‘Green’ for a context. Consequently, it is the responsibility of all of us professionals, connected with the design and implementation processes of the built environment, to delve deeper into the understanding of issues related to sustainability at all levels, from macro to micro. It is only this understanding that will help us contribute in making out built environment more responsible for and towards our own country.
121 WORLD ENDEAVOURS IN SUSTAINABILITY
Material choices through tim e
Principal Building Materials of India over Centuries The richness of variety in the built environment across the length and breath of India is a result of the use of building materials like Mud, Brick, Stone, Wood, Bamboo & Cane, Metal and Lime. For many centuries the potentials of their inherent strengths have been explored and evolved by using them in a variety of building elements and crafts. They have characteristics which have demonstrated their sustainable nature. They are: • Bio-degradable and recyclable. • Low energy consumers in their manufacture and production processes. • Readily available in close proximity. • Labour intensive and generate demands for local skills to sustain local economies. • Less polluting. • Often regenerative and allow reuse. • Highly durable and show longer life span.
Why are some materials less sustainable? After two years of construction of a lime mortar based building, when cracks were still visible, a craftsperson was asked “Ye dararen Kyon abhi bhi dikhti hain?” His reply was “Sa’ab, abhi bhi deewar saans le rahi hai”.
While he was preparing the lime plaster he was asked, “Isme kitna pani dalna chahiye?” His reply was, “Itna hi jis se maal ki Reacting to a design milawat sahi ho, par hath change he responded, mein maal laddu nahi “Kayde se ye khambha bana sake ”. yahan nahi hona chahiye”. There is an unwritten order that master craftsmen do not violate.
Because they demonstrate… … h igh levels of embodied energy. … less longevity and durability. … h igher thermal conductivity which facilitates the ingress of heat. … h igher consumption of fuel in production and implementation processes. … less recyclability. … u nhealthy, hazardous and difficult to treat waste generation.
While preparing Aarish lime plaster he was asked “Aarish kaisa hona chahiye?” His reply was “Aisa ki us per chinti bhi nahi chadh paye” (So smooth and without even hairline cracks).
123 WORLD ENDEAVOURS IN SUSTAINABILITY
How does one know what not to use where? It is prudent not to use materials from one climatic zone in another. …Mud walls are not an ideal choice in humid climates like Kerala. …Wood is not an ideal choice in the Thar desert region, except for babul which is indigenous.
Are some materials more sustainable than others? How do we recognise them? Some materials are reusable.
Judicious use of the material
For example a part of the 250-year-old lime from the plaster of
Traditional crazy stone flooring (not contemporary) is the most
Chand Pol Gate in Jaipur was removed, ground and reused for the
intelligent pattern that can be used, as it requires minimal cutting
new plaster as an ingredient in the conservation process of the
and can use all shapes and sizes of stone.
Gate in 2003.
The amount of waste generated is a gauge of its sustainability.
The reuse of a material in any form after two and a half centuries, speaks volumes about its sustainability.
Opportunity for adaptive reuse Stone jallis, jharokhas and other elements can be used again in a
Some materials are more durable.
new setting.
“The life of most conventional buildings is more likely to end at
The materials that offer the built environment to evolve over
90 years whereas the life of lime dominated building begins at 70
centuries by adaptive re-usage, is testimony of their timeless
years” –a Jaipur craftsman on the lifespan of a building.
sustainability.
The sustainable character is demonstrated by the longevity of the buildings.
Embodied Energy Embodied energy is the energy required to bring the material from
Waste generated in the processes can be used elsewhere.
its natural state to its usable form. It also includes the cost of its
Surkhi, a by-product in the brick-making process is used in lime
Sustainable materials generally have Low Embodied Energy.
plaster and mortar. The use of all the by-products is also a measure of its sustainability.
transportation to site.
Why do some materials get used more in one region and not in the other? They have greater chemical congruence with other materials
The use of Chhachh (buttermilk) along with Gur, Gugal and Methi,
In many parts of India, communities use limestone as a primary
observed to produce more moss when used in Ahmedabad.
building material, bonded with lime mortar, cover the walls with
Omitting the Chhachh from the plaster concoction at Ahmedabad
lime plaster and paint it every year with lime wash. The continuous
reduced the moss.
ingress of lime over a long period converts the wall into one
This is attributed to different quality of available material and the
monolithic rocky mass over 50-60 years, after which its life span
craftsmen’s understanding of it.
extends to centuries.
They are more conducive for use in local climate since they originate there and have also experienced the climatic cycle for a longer period
the normal ingredients in traditional lime plaster in Jaipur was
A local material should be used in its region of origin, as it has existed in the same climatic extremes, and thus does not undergo trauma when used in similar circumstances.
For Aarish in Jaipur the preparation time is 15 months while for Ghutai in Udaipur the lead time is 9 months.
125 WORLD ENDEAVOURS IN SUSTAINABILITY
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WORLD ENDEAVOURS IN SUSTAINABILITY
129 WORLD ENDEAVOURS IN SUSTAINABILITY
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