To live a healthy life, people had to re-consider environmental issues carefully. So eco-friendly buildings were born. Ecological architecture maintains the purpose of harmonious development between man and nature. It promotes ecological balance.
This article will introduce the definition and development of green architecture, and also the reasons for creating it.
What is Ecological Architecture?
Did you know what is ecological architecture? Made of local or surrounding renewable materials, eco-architecture refers to a series of environmentally friendly urban infrastructures. It is committed to employing many innovative sustainability strategies, such as natural ventilation, solar panels, recirculating irrigation systems, etc. By replacing the gray infrastructure of the city and covering green vegetation on the urban ground, the architecture not only strengthens aesthetics but also effectively improves urban pollution and biodiversity.
In cities, constructed wetlands and greenways are common urban ecological architecture. In addition, the dome is great ecological architecture protecting vegetation.
The Development of Ecological Architecture
In the 1960s, people opposed urban expansion and exploded a wave of environmentalism in the United States. This is the origin of ecological architecture. The energy crisis of the 1970s further raised people's awareness of environmental protection and promoted the development of renewable energy. Subsequently, some developed countries began to introduce the concept of sustainable development. Then ecology and architecture were vigorously advocated. The development of science and technology has led to new techniques and new materials so that ecological buildings can be widely used.
Ecological architecture is designed to address imbalances. At present, people are trying their best to develop new energy-saving materials, such as graphene. Renewable concrete, thermal insulation, photovoltaic materials, etc. are gradually being used in various industries. People also consciously choose environmentally friendly products and transportation.
In the future, ecological design architecture will continue to develop and become more popular. It minimizes noise, reduces pollution, regulates the climate, and improves air quality. It will become an indispensable element for people to live healthily. People hope that these buildings can resist frequent natural disasters and make the earth greener.
Why Should We Create Ecological Architecture?
With global climate change and environmental problems, ecological architecture has attracted more and more attention. It has many benefits. Not only does it reduce emissions, balance ecosystems, and increase diversity, but it's also good for human health, etc.
Body Health
The increase of green land can effectively increase the oxygen content in the air and purify the air quality. This will reduce respiratory diseases. Moderate humidity and temperature provide a comfortable environment for people's daily lives. The reduction of noise has certainly improved the quality of sleep and work efficiency. Less construction waste means that the soil is less polluted and people are able to eat healthier.
Energy Conservation and Emission Reduction
Eco-architectures significantly reduce the use of fossil fuels and decrease greenhouse gas emissions. At the same time, the extraction and consumption of natural resources are reduced. Some architectures have rainwater harvesting and recirculating water systems that help conserve water resources. An efficient energy management system and the use of renewable energy significantly save electricity and water, reducing operating costs.
Resource Recycling
Resource recycling systems reduce the consumption of natural resources and prevent environmental pollution. First of all, materials are renewable and degradable. Secondly, architecture fully utilizes natural resources. For example, it depends on solar energy and wind energy to generate electricity. In addition, the sewage treatment system can purify domestic sewage and reuse it for landscape, etc. Besides, it converts waste into organic fertilizer which can be applied in gardens and green spaces.
Biodiversity and Nature Protection
Urban building has forced animals to leave their homes, and there are fewer spaces for them to live. Wetlands, parks, forests, ponds, rivers, etc. provide habitat and food for animals to thrive. Architectures improve the urban living environment while achieving the goal of harmonious coexistence between man and nature.
Balancing the Urban Environment and Development
Cities need to develop, and then they must rely on nature. But nature's resources are limited. A sustainable development strategy minimizes mining and helps to restore the original ecological function. Green infrastructure provides places for leisure and entertainment, improving the well-being of residents. They play an important role in reducing carbon emissions and maintaining ecological balance.
Coping with Climate Change
Cities consist of dense buildings, roads, and some infrastructure. These are usually able to absorb and retain more heat. However, natural landscapes such as forests and green spaces do not, so cities' inner temperatures are often warmer than surrounding areas. Green architecture can regulate the temperature and reduce the use of air conditioning. It can also effectively improve the greenhouse effect, slow down the melting of glaciers, and improve urban haze.
Innovative Example - Built with Passion by Shelter Dome
Environmental protection and sustainability have always been our top priorities, and we continue to achieve them. Next, let's take a look at our successful ecological architecture projects.
The greenhouse garden dome was built in 2018. It is a comprehensive infrastructure that integrates ecological design and plant protection. Its surface is covered with transparent material, which has good natural lighting and provides plenty of sunlight for the vegetation. Ventilation is carried out through rational open window design. So it can use natural wind.
Native plants were planted to adapt to the local climate and soil conditions. This can reduce the need for water and fertilizer, and help to maintain the local ecological balance. In addition, the dome provides a relaxing space for relaxation and you can enjoy the lush greenery. The garden dome can effectively improve air quality and increase resource utilization.
Summary
Ecological architecture can effectively protect the ecological environment and maintain ecological balance. After people realized environmental problems, they began to pay attention to the use of ecological design. It is believed that in the future, more and more ecology architecture will appear in cities.
If you're also interested in eco-architecture, please contact Shelter Dome now.
