What is sustainable architecture?

“Sustainable architecture is about creating a better quality of life for everyone, now and for generations to come. It means recognising that our economy, environment and social wellbeing are interdependent”.

It follows these basic principles:

Siting

Buildings should sit appropriately in their surroundings – be sensitive in scale and style to the character of the existing natural and built environment, reuse previously developed sites, wherever possible, and develop locations already served by transport, communications and utilities infrastructure.

Materials

Construction should prioritise the use of local and natural/recycled materials.

Construction Techniques

The latest environmental techniques should be specified – to save energy, water and waste during the development’s construction, operation and decommissioning phases.

ICT

Construction design and specification should maximise future ICT capacity.

Community Involvement

Communities should be informed about, and involved in the planning and design of buildings in their area, which should be safe, secure and accessible to all.

Local Sourcing

The use of local labour, training, design and creativity should be maximised to support local economies and minimise energy use in transportation and travel.