What does it mean to build “Green”?
Building green means incorporating environmental considerations and resource efficiency into every step of the building and land development process to minimize environmental impact. This means the building’s impact on the environment is considered during all aspects of its design, construction, and operation.
Many apartment communities are using green practices in their units; such things as ENERGY STAR® windows and appliances, recycled content materials and water-conserving fixtures are all important parts of green apartment home. Moving beyond these initial actions to the next step of sustainable building, apartment developers and owners can consider a whole-building systems approach. Apartment buildings are composed of several independent components which, when planned and fully considered, can work together to increase performance and energy efficiency. For example, making a building envelope tighter through air sealing and quality building techniques can affect the way the builder designs the building’s ventilation system. It is through such whole building system thinking that developers and owners can gain cost efficiencies that will not only add to their Net Operating Income but attract future residents as well.
Some key components of a green apartment community include:
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Energy-Efficient Features
Many of the energy-efficient qualities of a green apartment home are easy to spot. Appliances, windows, and water heating systems will likely have ENERGY STAR® ratings. The apartment should also include efficient lighting fixtures and bulbs. Renewable energy sources, such as photovoltaic (solar) electricity and water heating systems, further decrease the overall energy consumption within the home.
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Water-Efficient Features
Fixtures and appliances such as low-flow showerheads, faucets, and toilets, and ENERGY STAR dishwashers and washing machines all conserve water. Programmed, low-volume irrigation systems, rainwater collection systems, wastewater treatment systems, and hot water recirculation systems also save water.
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Resource-Efficient Features
These decisions—from unit size, to orientation on the lot, to floor plan layout—are made in the design of apartment community and development of the lot. Building orientation and design should take advantage of natural daylight to reduce lighting needs, and should use strategies to reduce heat gain in the summer and heat loss in the winter. The building should contain renewable materials, including rapidly-renewable wood species such as bamboo, and recycled-content materials in carpets, tiles, and concrete formulations.
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Indoor Air Quality Features
The heating, air conditioning and ventilation system (HVAC) must be appropriately sized for an efficient and properly ventilated unit. Fans in the kitchen and bathrooms should cycle fresh air inside, and release stale air. Low-VOC paints and finishes and wall papers should be used as well.
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Outside the Building
In a green home, care should be taken to preserve trees and other vegetation native to the area. Landscaping should contain plants that are appropriate for the climate, and grouped according to water needs. Driveways and other impervious surfaces should be reduced as much as possible, and may be composed of gravel, permeable block pavers, grids, or other permeable systems.
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