Civil Engineering Reference
In-Depth Information
The potential of this new approach to integration of buildings and transport
into a distributed energy network is seen by some as a “third industrial revolution”
(Rifkin
2014
).
This power supply evolution poses new challenges to the way buildings are
designed, built, and operated. Traditional building energy supply systems will
become much more complex in at least three ways.
First, architects and building engineers cannot assume that as now gas will
arrive at the gas meter, electricity at its meter, and within the structure, the two
systems are virtually independent of one another. Rather, energy conversion, heat
recovery and use, and renewable harvesting may all be taking place simultane-
ously at various locations within the building energy system. Second, the structure
of energy flows in the building must accommodate multiple energy processes in a
manner that permits high overall efficiency. In other words, the building must be
designed around its energy flows and energy equipment to ensure efficiency. And
third, multiple qualities of electricity may be supplied to various building functions,
and there placement and supply must be considered (Marnay and Firestone
2007
).
4.1.3 Building Strategies to Reduce Depletion of Resources
Increasing scarcity and the consumption of fertile land and natural resources are a
significant global problem.
The use of building materials should be reduced considerably as a means of
resource efficiency. In order that materials remain available permanently, open mate-
rials chain, especially those for non renewable raw materials, must be closed wher-
ever possible. Actually, the strategies to use materials efficiently and to integrate
building materials in closed cycles are being applied sporadically. But the recent
Construction Product Regulation (05/2011) has introduced a basic requirement on
sustainable use of natural resources that will demand proof of the environmental
impact of building materials in accordance with the life cycle assessments.
The extension of materials life-cycle could be obtained by promoting the exten-
sion of life expectancy in buildings, i.e. by means of conversion/transformation of
existing buildings instead of new construction.
As explained in a previous chapter, the largest part of the embodied energy is in
the load-bearing structure. The refurbishment of existing building enable further
use of load-bearing structure and a great potential for resource and energy savings.
In a flexible or adaptive building, growing usage expectations and correspond-
ingly better internal fitting-out mean that long-lasting components are not fully
exploited. In such cases the design should take into account renewal processes
and, if feasible, secondary uses for components and materials.
Considering the life cycle of buildings means the design of building materials,
components, information systems, and management practices to create buildings
that facilitate and anticipate future changes to and eventual adaptation or disman-
tling for recovery of all systems, components, and materials.
