Case studies analysis of green building - Baraah Hamdoon

Department of Architectural Engineering

ARCH 603 - Sustainable Design Fall 2017-2018

Case Studies Analysis of Green Buildings

Narin Marwan

201770100

Baraah Hamdoon

201770200

Sara Ali

201770012

Under the Supervision of Prof. Khaled A. Al-Sallal September 2017

Declaration of Original Work Narin Mohammed, Baraah Hamadoon, and Sara Ali, the undersigned, graduate students at United Arab Emirates University (UAEU), and the author of this research entitled “Case Studies Analysis of Green Buildings”, hereby, solemnly declare that this research is our own original work that has been done and prepared by us, under the supervision of Professor Khaled A. Al-Sallal, in the College of Engineering at UAEU. This work has not previously been presented or published, or formed the basis for the award of any academic degree, diploma or a similar title at this or any other university. Any materials borrowed from other sources (whether published or unpublished) and relied upon or included in our research have been properly cited and acknowledged in accordance with appropriate academic conventions.

We further declare that there is no potential conflict of interest with respect to the research, data collection, authorship, presentation and/or publication of this thesis.

Student’s Name & Signatures:

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Date: ________________

Student’s Name & Signatures:

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Date: ________________

Student’s Name & Signatures:

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Date: ________________

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ABSTRACT

Constructing a green building is an important step towards building an environment, free of negative impact. Therefore, the research paper focuses on explaining the international green building rating systems through several countries and what criteria they use to evaluate the buildings. Also, the main aim of this paper is to show some important case studies, selected from different climate regions that apply those criteria. Moreover, to highlight how is the implication of the environmental sustainable aspects achieved from an engineering and architectural perspective. This Study aims to establish the opportunity to explore in deep several issues that are usually faced by architects, engineers, and designers, and how are the constructive solutions achieved by enhancing of the buildings qualities. The achieved categories of each case study are studied and analyzed based on the criteria of green building rating system in each country. At the end of this paper, a comparison analyzes between the selected projects measures how each project is dealing with site, energy, water, indoor environments, materials, waste, pollution, and management.

Keywords: Sustainability - Green building rating system- LEED - BREEM - Green Star - Estidama - indoor quality energy efficiency - water efficiency - material - land use - waste - pollution

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ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

Many thanks go to our Professor Khaled A. Al-Sallal, the leader of this course and this research, for his helpful advises explanations, suggestions, and encouragement during our work from the first step till the completion of this paper.

Furthermore, we would like to thank the all online libraries for their available information and resources that supported our work and helped us to get results of better quality.

We are also grateful to our colleagues, in this course, for their advice and suggestions.

Last but not least, very deep appreciation to the team mated who worked on this paper together step by step. Many thanks for their given support, assistance, and group work through this study.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS TITLE .................................................................................................................................................. ......1 DECLARATION OF ORIGINAL WORK ............................................................................................ 2 ABSTRACT ............................................................................................................................................... 3 ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS ..................................................................................................................... 4 TABLE OF CONTENTS ......................................................................................................................... 5 LIST OF TABLES..................................................................................................................................... 6 LIST OF FIGURES ................................................................................................................................... 7 LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS .................................................................................................................. 9 CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION........................................................................................................ 10 1.1 OVERVIEW ............................................................................................................... 10 1.2 STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM ...................................................................... 10 1.3 OBJECTIVES ............................................................................................................ 10 CHAPTER 2: METHODOLOGY ....................................................................................................... 11 2.1 USED METHODS FOR DATA COLLECTION .................................................. 11 CHAPTER 3: GREEN RATING SYSTEMS .................................................................................... 12 3.1 BREEM ....................................................................................................................... 13 3.2 LEED ........................................................................................................................... 14 3.3 GREEN STAR ............................................................................................................ 15 3.4 ESTIDAMA ................................................................................................................ 16 CHAPTER 4: PRECEDENT STUDIES ............................................................................................ 17 4.1 AUSGRID LEARNING CENTRE .......................................................................... 17 4.2 SHEIKH ZAYED DESERT LEARNIN CENTER .............................................. 24 4.3 THE CRYSTAL CONFERENCE CENTER BY SIEMENS ............................... 33 4.4 CENTRE FOR INTERACTIVE RESEARCH ON SUSTAINABILITY .......... 40 CHAPTER 5: DICSUSSION ............................................................................................................... 46 CHAPTER 6: CONCLUSION & RECOMMINDATIONS ............................................................. 47 REFERENCES ....................................................................................................................................... 49

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LIST OF TABLES ▪

Table 1

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Table 2

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Table 3

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LIST OF FIGURES

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Figure 1

World map showing countries using the Green Rating Systems

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Figure 2

BREEM: sustainability categories for the assessment

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Figure 3

LEED: sustainability categories for the assessment

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Figure 4

GREEN STAR: sustainability categories for the assessment

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Figure 5

ESTIDAMA: sustainability categories for the assessment

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Figure 6

Ausgrid Learning Centre

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Figure 7

Sustainable Building Assessment Tool Diagram

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Figure 8

Sustainable indoors

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Figure 9

Opened areas catch daylight & ventilation

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Figure 10

Optimizing acoustic performance

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Figure 11

In-slab duct system

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Figure 12

Technical solutions for Indoor Quality in Ausgrid Learning Centre

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Figure 13

Motorized louvers

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Figure 14

Solar power system installed on the roof

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Figure 15

Technical solutions for Energy Efficiency in Ausgrid Learning Centre

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Figure 16

Technical solutions for Transport in Ausgrid Learning Centre

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Figure 17

Technical solutions for Water Efficiency in Ausgrid Learning Centre

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Figure 18

Sustainable timber material,

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Figure 19

Technical solutions for Used Materials in Ausgrid Learning Centre

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Figure 20

Channels filled with local plants

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Figure 21

Exterior Facade

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Figure 22

Building Orientation

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Figure23

Concrete core activation

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Figure 24

Adiabatic cooling towers

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Figure 25

Underground earth heat exchangers pre-cool inlet fresh air 5m under the earth,

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Figure 26

Cross section showing submerged building in the ground, and circulation lifts

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Figure 27

No flush urinals

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Figure 28

Drip line irrigation system

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Figure 29

Crystal Conference Centre

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Figure 30

Smart System of Crystal Building

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Figure 31

Green Building Certification 7|Page

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Figure 32

Automatic window for natural ventilation

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Figure 33

Natural light graph

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Figure 34

Solar panel (roof top)

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Figure 35

Electricity system graph

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Figure 36

Sustainable transport graph

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Figure 37

Water system

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Figure 38

Water system graph

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Figure 39

Façade design/ exterior materials

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Figure 40

Exterior spaces

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Figure 41

Landscape area

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Figure 42

Energy Management System of Crystal Building/ explaining all sustainable feature used in CCC

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Figure 43

CIRS (UBC) from exterior view

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Figure 44

Daylighting system at CIRS

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Figure 45

Energy Management feature

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Figure 46

Water Management System

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Figure 47

Interior spaces in CIRS

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Figure 48

Land use in the site/ explaining sustainable feature in CIRS

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LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS

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LEED

Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design

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BREEM

Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method

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ALC

Ausgrid Learning Centre

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TCCC

The Crystal Conference Centre

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CFIROS

Centre For Interactive Research On Sustainability

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SZDLC

Sheikh Zayed Desert Learning Centre

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PBRS

Pearl Building Rating System

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UK

United Kingdome

▪

US

United States

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UAE

United Arab Emirates

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UAEU

United Arab Emirates University

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VOC

Volatile Organic Compound

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ACE

Air Change Effectiveness

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HVAC

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning

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IAQ

Indoor Air Quality Plan

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CHAPTER 1 INTRODUCTION 1.1 OVERVIEW The construction industry plays a very important role in satisfying the social needs, enhancing the life quality, and contributing to the economic growth of a country. However, it has been criticized for being a major contributor to environmental degradation, carbon emissions, and global warming due to its utilization of a large proportion of natural resources and energy consumption. Statics showed that the building sector is consuming a third of global resources, one sixth of global freshwater withdrawals, 25% of wood harvested, and 40% of all raw materials. Approximately 10% of all global energy supply takes place during the manufacturing of building materials. Also, the building sector generates huge amount of construction and demolition wastes, accounting for 40% of total solid waste in developed countries. Due to those issues, authorities and organizations initiated the rating systems for green buildings to minimize and enhance the usage of natural resources and control pollution. Buildings certified by those rating systems are consuming less energy, providing better indoor environments and contributing to the overall reputation of the property. It is estimated that there are around 600 rating systems internationally.

BREEAM is known as the best and first rating tool to assess building performance based on certain target values for different criteria. In addition, several systems such as the United States' LEED, Australia's Green Star, and UAE's Estidama, are currently being applied to evaluate the building performances. In this paper, some famous projects in UK, Canada, Australia, and UAE are studied and evaluated, in order to analyze the achieved categories, the differences, and the similarities between them (Ruuska & Hakkinen, 2014).

1.2 RESEARCH PROBLEM STATEMENT Various green rating systems are established to evaluate the sustainability of construction projects. Based on that, selected case studies in this research explain and evaluate how the categories and criteria of each system are achieved.

1.3 OBJECTIVES ▪

Study the types of the green building rating systems in each region.

▪

Understand the environmental sustainable strategies that are used in the mentioned case studies.

▪

Evaluate how projects dealt with the challenges, solutions and technologies.

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Develop understanding of the basic knowledge of environmental implications of engineering activities.

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Achieve a critical analysis and problem solving strategies.

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CHAPTER 2 METHODOLOGY For the purposes of this research, the used methodologies are varying from one topic to another. Various methods and approaches are conducted to achieve the desired results and evaluations. All papers and information collected are related to the environmental sustainable design and green rating systems. In order to select appropriate research method, the following discussion explains the advantages and disadvantages of the mentioned methods, and how we dealt with each.

Internet researches It offers an easy way to get the information in a very short time. The cons of this method that it is not reliable source since anyone can publish any kind of information. Due to that, we focused only on the well known websites in order to achieve the credibility.

E-books E-books are good source because they are available and easily accessible in any time as they could be read online. Also, they are reliable because author and publisher are usually known. The cons of this kind of books that they are not always available online, and sometimes it is not easy to read from screen. In our research, before choosing the case studies and the specific topics, we started to find the helpful available E-books.

Articles This method is a reliable source because usually articles are written by academics, scholars and experts.

Not to forget that they usually list the references those are useful for additional information. Also, articles are useful in conducting researches because they cover very specific topics. The quality of information is usually checked before publishing. The cons of this method that it does not show details as the books do.

However, we tried our best to deal with the articles that are more specific than the others.

Case studies Case studies offer a good way to conduct new findings and solve issues based on deep investigation in a particular topic or problem. They show a real life situation. The main disadvantage of this method is that it is usually conducted by one person so it may be affected by the observation and perception of that person. For that, we studied our cases several times from several sources to ensure the quality of the investigations.

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CHAPTER 3 GREEN RATING SYSTEMS During the late 20th century, awareness of the impact of technology and the expanding human population on the Earth increased. People started to expand their efforts to reduce their environmental impact and buildings started to become recognized as major contributors to the world's energy usage, landfill waste and diminishing green space. As a result, organizations started to apply several systems for achieving a green building (Arup, & Partners, 2014).

The definition of a green building is often in the eye of the beholder. Certifying green buildings helps to remove that subjectivity. Rating a green buildings inform tenants and the public about the environmental benefits of a property, and reveal the additional innovation and effort the owner has invested to achieve a high performance building. Green buildings are considered as high performance buildings if they are implemented properly. Strategically integrated mechanical, electrical, and materials systems usually create substantial efficiencies, the complexity of which is not always transparent (Arup, & Partners, 2014).

Rating a green building identifies those differences objectively, and quantifies their contribution to resource and energy efficiency. The rating then allows for better communication of what those high performance features are, and helps differentiate the building in the market. In addition to that, rating buildings can reduce the implied risks. Since rating systems require independent third party testing of the various elements, there is less risk that the systems will not perform as predicted. Further, if a building is formally rated, there is less risk that project has been green washed or marketed to create the perception that a property is green, when in fact no real effort or expense has been invested achieve that goal (Arup, & Partners, 2014).

Figure 1: World map showing countries using the Green Rating Systems Arup, O., & Partners L.T.D., (2014). International sustainability systems comparison. CoreNet Global.

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1.1 BREEM Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method (United Kingdom)

BREEAM, first published by the Building Research Establishment in 1990, is one of the most famous and internationally recognized voluntary certification schemes for sustainability in buildings. BREEAM assessments are carried out to test the performance of buildings through a wide range of criteria from energy, ecology, pollution, and transport and more. The purpose of this rating system is to raise the awareness amongst owners, occupiers, designers and operators of the benefits of taking a sustainability approach. It helps to successfully and cost effectively adopt sustainable solutions, and provides market recognition of their achievements. Moreover, it aims to reduce the negative effects of construction on the environment. More than 250,000 buildings have been BREEAM certified and over a million are registered for certification, many in the UK and others in more than 50 countries around the world (Arup, & Partners, 2014).

The outstanding rating is intended to be achieved by innovators making up less than top 1% of UK new nonresidential buildings. The Excellent rating is aligned with best practice buildings making up the top 10% of new non-residential buildings. Very Good reflects advanced practice (top 25%), while Good could be achieved by the top 50% of UK non-residential buildings. Finally, the Pass rating applies to the top 75% and is considered standard good practice (Arup, & Partners, 2014).

Figure 2: BREEM: sustainability categories for the assessment Arup, O., & Partners L.T.D., (2014). International sustainability systems comparison. CoreNet Global.

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1.2 LEED Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (United States, Variation for Canada and India)

Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design, LEED, is the sustainability rating system created by the US Green Building Council (USGBC) 2000 in the United States of America. It is one of the most widely recognized green building programs. This rating system requires objective evidence that specific requirements have been met in the areas of site sustainability, water efficiency and more.

The LEED certification uses a 100-point scale for rating and awards credits based on potential environmental impacts, each project is awarded scores against a standard set of credits and the sum of the points awarded determines the level of certification (Silver, Gold, or Platinum) achieved. This rating system addresses the design features of the project across a range of criteria in five credit categories: Sustainable Sites, Water Efficiency, Energy and Atmosphere, Materials and Resources and Indoor Environmental Quality. In addition to existing categories, recently released LEED brought together existing and new credits and created two additional categories: Integrative Process and Location and Transportation. LEED has become the dominant sustainability ratings system globally and is the most commonly used system in the USA, Canada, Mexico, Central and South America and India. It is widely used in China and the Gulf region as well as Europe, particularly Western Europe (Arup, & Partners, 2014).

Figure 3: LEED: sustainability categories for the assessment Arup, O., & Partners L.T.D., (2014). International sustainability systems comparison. CoreNet Global.

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1.3 GREEN STAR (Australia)

Green Star is a voluntary sustainability rating system for buildings in Australia. It was launched in 2003 by the Green Building Council of Australia. The Green Star rating system assesses the sustainability of projects at all stages of the built environment life cycle. Ratings can be achieved at the planning phase for communities, during the design, construction or fit out phase of buildings, or during the ongoing operational phase. The system considers assesses and rates buildings, fit outs and communities against a range of environmental impact categories, and aims to encourage leadership in environmentally sustainable design and construction, showcase innovation in sustainable building practices, and consider occupant health, productivity and operational cost savings. The ratings are intended to reflect the building performance as follows: Four Star - Best Practice, Five Star, Australian Excellence; Six Star, World Leadership (Arup, & Partners, 2014).

Over 600 projects in Australia adopt the tool; a typical Green Star project will emit fewer Greenhouse Gases and consume 66% less electricity than the average Australian building. They also consume 51% less potable water, and recycle 96% of their construction and demolition waste. To obtain building certification, the project team prepares documentary evidence to demonstrate that the project meets the Green Star benchmarks for the targeted level within each credit. This is reviewed by an independent assessment panel who assign the rating based on documentary evidence provided by the team (Arup, & Partners, 2014).

Figure 4: GREEN STAR: sustainability categories for the assessment Arup, O., & Partners L.T.D., (2014). International sustainability systems comparison. CoreNet Global.

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1.5 ESTIDAMA (United Arab Emirates)

Estidama is a building design methodology for constructing and operating buildings and communities more sustainably. The program is a key aspect of the Abu Dhabi Vision 2030 that drives to build the Abu Dhabi emirate according to innovative green standards. The program is not itself a green building rating system like LEED or BREEAM, but rather a collection of ideals that are imposed in an elective building code type of format. It is also called the Pearl Rating System that is utilized to evaluate sustainable building development practices in Abu Dhabi (Green Emirates Consultants. 2017).

The aim of the Pearl Building Rating System (PBRS) is to promote the development of sustainable buildings and improve the quality of life. Achievements of a sustainable building require an integration of the four pillars of Estidama together with a collaborative and inter disciplinary approach to building development known as the Integrated Development Process. The PBRS encourages water, energy and waste minimization, local material use and aims to improve supply chains for sustainable and recycled materials and products. The PBRS is applicable to all building typologies, their sites and associated facilities, including hospitals, warehouses, industrial buildings, laboratories and hotels. In essence, any building constructed for permanent use and that is air-conditioned must meet the PBRS requirements. All buildings must achieve a minimum 1 Pearl Rating, and all government-funded buildings must achieve a minimum 2 Pearl Rating (Green Emirates Consultants. 2017).

Figure 5: ESTIDAMA: sustainability categories for the assessment, Retrieved from https://www.slideshare.net/SherifMostafa28/estidama

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CHAPTER 4 PRECEDENT STUDIES 4.1 AUSGRID LEARNING CENTRE SILVERWATER NSW, AUSTRALIA

OVERVIEW ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪

Green Star Rating System: 6 stars Certified in 2011 - Score 81 Architect: DEM (Aust) Pty Ltd Size: 5,933 m2 UFA

BACKGROUND

Figure 6: Ausgrid Learning Centre, Retrieved from http://vosgroup.com.au/?portfolio=ausgrid-learning-centre

Ausgrid Learning Centre (ALC), is a major trainer of apprentices in Australia and provides technical training in specialist areas to both staff and external clients. It is the first project in Australia to be awarded a 6 Star Green Star. It was designed to combine several facilities within a world-leading sustainable building and cater for a variety of training, corporate and administration activities.

Environmentally responsible design principles were applied in the center from site layout and building orientation to the design of the facades and the selection of materials and finishes. The aim of this project was to provide a centre of excellence offering a high quality educational environment for teaching staff and apprentices. The centre merge a range of flexible teaching spaces including multi-purpose classrooms, technical labs ,workshops, research labs and an interactive library (Green Building Council of Australia, 2017).

Figure 7: Sustainable Building Assessment Tool Diagram

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ACHIEVED CATEGORIES 1) Indoor Quality The indoor environmental quality of this building has a significant impact on occupant health, comfort, and productivity. It is achieved in all indoor areas by maximizing the daylighting, providing appropriate ventilation, controlling moisture, optimizes acoustic performance, and avoiding the use of materials with high-VOC emissions. All occupants of the building find it a great facility to work in and they are very impressed with the quality of the facilities.

Figure 8: Sustainable indoors, Retrieved from https://www.pinterest.com/pin/45859317452854 4453/

From an architectural side, the orientation of the building combined with external louvers provides shading and minimize heat and glare. Inner areas are designed in a very clear way. Inside the building 60% of the areas have direct lines thhat lead to the outdoor areas. Additionally the stairs are amenable and highly visible that enhance easae of accessiblity and conveniece (Green Building Council of Australia, 2017).

Figure 9: Opened areas catch daylight & ventilation, Retrieved from http://www.architectureanddesign.com.au/projects/education-health/ausgrid-learning-centre

Because it’s home to a wide range of training activities, many of which are noisy, the acoustic treatment of the centre’s various spaces was also given much consideration.

Within the workshops for example, an environmental acoustic finish to the slab soffits assists in maintaining acoustic

levels

appropriate

for

the

training

being

undertaken, as well as providing an acoustic buffer for Figure 10: Optimizing acoustic performance, Retrieved from: http://www.architectureanddesign.com.au/proj ects/education-health/ausgrid-learning-centre

adjacent spaces.

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Exposure to indoor irritants has also been minimized by specifying low-volatile organic compound paints, adhesives, sealants, flooring, wood products and other furnishings for the fit out (Green Building Council of Australia, 2017).

From a technical point of view, controlling further temperatures is provided by in-slab duct system, that include exposed concrete slabs with metal ducted core to absorb heat during the day and purges it by passing the cool night air through the slabs (Green Building Council of Australia, 2017).

Figure 11: in-slab duct system, Retrieved from: http://www.architectureanddesign.com.au/projects/education-health/ausgrid-learning-centre

Other technical solutions and implimentation achieved in Ausgrid Learning Centre, the following figure represent them:

•

The Air Change Effectiveness (ACE) for at least 95% of the nominated area meets the recommended criteria.

•

A carbon dioxide monitoring system is specified to track and adjust ventilation rates with low carbon dioxide levels upon occupancy. Also, a VOC monitoring system is specified to detect and alert when pollutants are too high in the building.

•

Internal temperatures fall within 90% of ASHRAE 55-2004 Acceptability Limit 1 in design.

•

The building services noise meets the recommended design sound levels provided in Table 1 of AS/NZS2107:2000.

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95% of all adhesives and sealants meet the TVOC Content Limits outlined in Table IEQ-8.2 or where no adhesives or sealants are used.

•

All carpets meet the TVOC emissions limits outlined in Table IEQ-8.3 OR

•

All engineered wood products (including exposed and concealed applications) Have low formaldehyde emissions;

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The mechanically air conditioned ventilation system actively controls humidity to be no more than 60% relative humidity in the space and no more than 80% relative humidity in the supply ductwork.

Figure 12: Technical solutions for Indoor Quality in Ausgrid Learning Centre

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2) Energy Efficiency ALC placed an excellent focus on the ability to generate energy sustainably and reduce the demand on natural resources. From an architectural side, installing energy-efficient lighting, heating and cooling equipment in the center has reduced energy usage to 60% of an equivalent-sized building. That is saving a lot of energy, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and saving energy costs each year.

Also, near to enclosed areas, such as training rooms as well as external walls and walkways, louvers are motorized

and

controlled

automatically

via

management system, enabling maximum use of natural ventilation and reducing energy use. Louvers remain open when the air temperature is measured at a comfortable level, but if the temperature rises or falls below the suitable range, air conditioning or heating is activated and the louvers automatically close (Green Building Council of Australia, 2017).

Figure 13: Motorized louvers, Retrieved from http://safetylinejalousie.com.au/portfolio/ausg rid-learning-centre-silverwater-nsw/

From a technical point of view, a 51 kilowatt solar power system, made up of 260 PV cells, has been installed on the roof of the Learning Centre. When working at full capacity, the system provides enough renewable energy to power 10 homes for a year and reduce demand on the network.

Also, a 337-kilowatt tri-generation solar power system, generates electricity, with waste heat used to warm the building and provide hot water. Heat from the generator is also directed to the absorption chiller that is used to cool the building. Moreover, to reduce waste heat from the absorption chiller, they drilled

Figure 14: solar power system installed on the roof Westhuizen, C.V.D., (2015). Sustainability Auditing (Ausgrid Learning Centre). Architectural Environmental Studies.

bores 100 meters into the earth. Water from the chiller is then directed down the holes where it is cooled by the earth's low temperatures before being pumped back into the system (Green Building Council of Australia, 2017).

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Other technical solutions and implimentation achieved in Ausgrid Learning Centre, are represented in figure 15.

•

Sub-metering is provided to separately monitor lighting and general power consumption for primary functional areas (per floor) as defined in the Technical Manual,

•

Peak energy demand is actively reduced by 30%;

•

An automated lighting control, including occupant detection and daylight adjustment is provided and the nominated area for the purpose of this credit is UFA.

•

The HVAC system in each separate enclosed space within the nominated area is designed to be automatically shut down when not in use.

•

Building is designed with amenable and highly visible, accessible and convenient stairs.

•

All external lighting has a light source efficacy of at least 50 lumens/watt; 95% of outdoor spaces meet or exceed the minimum requirements of AS1158 for luminance levels; and 95% of all external

•

Lights are connected to daylight sensors (daylight sensors can be combined with a time switch).

Figure 15: Technical solutions for Energy Efficiency in Ausgrid Learning Centre

3) Transport Architects emphasized and achieved the shift of focus from planning for mobility to planning for accessibility to access sustainable travel options more effectively. One of the key measures of accessibility here is providing access to different activities and opportunities. Accessibility is determined by the network coverage of a public -transport system and access by active modes (walking and cycling) to different areas and land uses (Green Building Council of Australia, 2017).

Through Ausgrid Learning Centre, car parking provisions do not exceed the minimum local planning allowance. 10 electric vehicle charging stations are located in the basement car park, as well as dedicated small car spaces to encourage the use of smaller, more fuel-efficient cars. Also, at least one specialized pedestrian path is provided on and off the site. Not to forget providing cyclist facilities for 10% of building staff that allows visitors to use several kinds of transportation (Green Building Council of Australia, 2017).

•

At least 25% less than the maximum local planning allowances applicable to the project or not exceeding the minimum planning allowance by more than 10%.

•

A minimum of 25% of the total parking spaces on the site are designed and labeled for small cars in accordance with AS/NZS 2890.1:2004 and/or mopeds/motorbikes.

•

A minimum of 10% of the peak number of students using the building at any one time (with 75% occupancy) are provided with a secure bicycle storage space.

•

Many public transport networks operate in close proximity with frequent peak hour services.

Figure 16: Technical solutions for Transport in Ausgrid Learning Centre

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The Learning Centre features a mixture of water efficient fixtures and fittings, as well a rainwater capture system. These features reduce water consumption to half that of similar sized buildings by using the inground rainwater tank that capture up to 147,000 liters of water. Cooling towers were also avoided in the project's design and construction through the use of ground source heat rejection and dry air-cooled chillers, thereby eliminating potable water consumption by air conditioning. Moreover, rainwater is collected in an underground cistern which holds 147,000 liters – the equivalent of around 25,000 toilet flushes. Once captured, the rainwater is used in conjunction with processed grey water for the Centre’s toilet flushing and irrigation (Green Building Council of Australia, 2017).

•

Water meters are installed for all major water uses in the project; and there is an effective mechanism for monitoring water consumption data.

•

Potable water consumption for landscape irrigation has been reduced by 90%;

•

Potable water consumption of water-based heat rejection systems is reduced by 90%;

•

There is sufficient temporary storage for a minimum of 80% of the routine fire protection system test water and maintenance drain-downs, for re-use on-site; and Each floor fitted with a sprinkler system has isolation valves or shut-off points for floor-by-floor testing;

Figure 17: Technical solutions for Water Efficiency in Ausgrid Learning Centre

5) Used Materials In this project, it was very important to achieve an integrated and intelligent use of materials that maximizes building’s value, prevents pollution, and conserves resources.

The materials used in a

sustainable building minimize environmental impacts such as global warming, resource depletion, and human toxicity. Environmentally preferable materials have a reduced effect on human health and the environment. Through ALC, a sustainable timber such as combining FSC certified, reused and recycled timber was used extensively. The furniture is designed especially for the building and is modular and could be used for different purposes. The specification of loose furniture throughout the project has a reduced environmental impact (Green Building Council of Australia, 2017).

Figure 18: sustainable timber material, Retrieved from http://www.architectureanddesign.com.au/projects/education-health/ausgrid-learning-centre

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Paints, adhesives, sealants, flooring, wood products and other furnishings and fixtures low in volatile organic compounds were used throughout; not only was this an ecologically sensitive choice for the construction, but as the building ages these products will release far fewer toxic emissions and make for a healthier work environment. About two-thirds of the building’s polyvinyl chloride pipes have been substituted with other materials. These materials are easier to recycle and emit fewer dioxins (Green Building Council of Australia, 2017).

•

The project has reduced the absolute quantity of Portland cement by substituting it with industrial waste product(s) or oversized aggregate as follows: 30% for in situ concrete, 20% for pre cast concrete and 15% for stressed concrete.

•

The project has reduced the absolute quantity of Portland cement by substituting it with industrial waste product(s) or oversized aggregate as follows: 60% for in situ concrete, 40% for pre cast concrete and 30% for stressed concrete.

•

90% of all steel, by mass, in the project either has a post-consumer recycled content greater than 50%, or is re-used

•

95% (by cost) of all timber products used in the building and construction works have been sourced from Re-used timber; Post-consumer recycled timber; or Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified timber.

Figure 19: Technical solutions for Used Materials in Ausgrid Learning Centre

6) Land Use The Learning Centre’s green roof reduces run off and adds benefit of insulating the building below, making the electrical workshops, spray booths and offices much more comfortable. Green roofs also contribute to improve air quality and reduce urban air temperatures by two degrees in built-up areas.

Also, Channels filled with local plants to filter storm water have been used extensively around the site.

Aside from removing pollutants from runoff before it reaches nearby watercourses, it has also created natural habitat in an otherwise industrial landscape. At the time of the site purchase, 75% of the site has been previously built on.

Figure 20: Channels filled with local plants, Retrieved from http://www.architectureanddesign.com.au/projects/education-health/ausgrid-learning-centre

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4.2 THE SHEIKH ZAYED DESERT LEARNING CENTRE Al-Ain, United Arab Emirates

OVERVIEW ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪

Estidama Rating System: 5 Pearls Certified in 200x - Score x Architect: Chalabi Architekten & Partner Size: 15,000 m²

Figure 21: Exterior Facade, Retrieved from: http://photographypfeiffer.com/portfolio/scheikh-zayed-desert-learning-centre/

BACKGROUND The Sheikh Zayed Desert Learning Centre is an integral part of the development of the Al Ain Wildlife Park and Resort. The project involves the redevelopment of the 40 year old Al Ain Zoo and it included new features like: wildlife themed safari, destination resort, retail and residential communities. The location of The Sheikh Zayed Desert Learning Centre is adjacent to the main entrance of the existing Al Ain Wildlife Park Zoo. It is a destination indoor attraction that provides an in-depth and scientific overview of the entire zoo experience. The centre’s built up area is 7600 m2 and consists of the following components: Entry Plaza, Foyer, Sheikh Zayed Hall, Feature Theatre, Desert Learning Exhibits, Coffee shop, Service Facilities, Outdoor Demonstration area (Moukhallati.D, 2016).

SZDLC proves that sustainable building concepts can also be implemented in desert environment. The goal was to reduce environmental impact and life-cycle costs significantly through innovative designs and technologies. The strategy of using innovative designs and technologies was to reduce environmental impact and life-cycle cost of the building. A key issue in hot climates is how to cool buildings efficiently and the Desert Learning Centre demonstrates how the architectural design can help to minimize energy consumption for cooling.

Ephgrave (2011) states in his article prior to completion that”... the building will contain a wealth of energy-saving measures to cut consumption by 40%. The roof is covered in photovoltaic, which will generate 236mWh a year, and shave 17% off the energy usage. A 1,100m2 solar farm generates hot water for a Korean-built absorption chiller – making its UAE debut – that requires no additional power”. The centre’s special design resulted in a 70 per cent reduction in heat absorption from the Sun, and a 50 per cent saving in energy and water usage (Moukhallati.D, 2016).

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ACHIEVED CATEGORIES 1) Indoor Quality In SZDLC, the indoor quality has been taken massively into consideration by implementing Construction Indoor Air Quality Plan (IAQ). It is a management plan which has a purpose to reduce air quality issues resulting from construction process. The purpose is to help maintain comfort and wellbeing of building occupants during and after construction. The best possible environment is achieved by planning strategies to fulfil specific project requirements. This management makes sure that construction dirt, dust and toxins in the occupant’s workplace are inexistent. With IAQ plan, control measures were followed to ensure healthy environment indoor of Sheikh Zayed Desert Learning Centre. Mechanical systems are the only air providing elements because the building has no natural ventilation implemented in its design. This is one of the few areas where the building did not score any point in Estidama rating.

2) Energy Efficiency Energy efficiency was achieved by simple solutions like using LED lights, while all lighting is controlled by a building-management system. Other measures include passive design techniques, underground aircooling, active solar cooling system, Adiabatic Cooling towers, Soil-air heat exchanger and heat recovery wheel.

•

Passive design by orientation, level, massing, overhangs

The building has been carefully designed to create a perforated form that

promotes

air

movement

through the courtyard. Additionally it achieves good lighting through recessed openings and indirect skylights. The design of openings was carefully selected to avoid excessive

solar

exposure.

The

orientation sets the longer side of the building facing the north south direction, which helps in the heat reduction.

Figure 22: Buoding Orientation

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Throughout the detailed design phase, plans, details and specifications directly and indirectly related to the building envelope went through several internal designer reviews as well as external third party reviews to ensure the SZLC’s building envelope meets the design intent and minimizes building impacts from condensation, water ingress, air infiltration and improper drainage. The building envelope during these reviews was assessed according to the following broad envelope build-up criteria: Orientation of envelope, Stone cladding with structural fixing system and thermal bridging, Insulation material application and compressive values, Waterproofing membranes, Window glazing, metal framing and thermal bridging Interior finish build-up.

A big portion of the building is subterranean acting as natural earth insulation which results in lowering the difference between external and internal temperatures. Over the main entrance, a large cantilever provides shade, for people approaching the building. Also, the outdoor spaces and courtyard are covered with fabric shading.

The building envelope is made of concrete (containing flyash) for its thermal mass and insulation. In addition, the application of a light reflective cladding material (sand stone or ceramic tiles) minimizes heat gain of the facade. Heat gain is also reduced by introduction of inclined walls, small window openings, and recessed window opening towards south. Canopies were integrated for south facing large glazed windows which offer view to the mountain ridge.

•

Underground air-cooling- Concrete core activation

Warm ambient air is first drawn through an underground system of nine ducts, lying 8 meters beneath the desert surface. This technique lowers the temperature of the incoming air by roughly by 8 to 10 degrees Celsius. The strategy of cooling the air in advance reduces cooling energy needed for Air Conditioning (AC) system and energy consumption by about 20 per cent (Waldhö.S, 2014).

Figure23: Concrete core activation, Retrieved from: https://www.uponor.com/products/ceiling-heating-andcooling/tabs

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•

Active solar cooling system

In areas where solar energy is of abundance, like UAE, Solar Cooling technology is very much of an interest. The way this system work is by using solar energy to heat up water in large quantities, up to 90 degree Celsius. Later, the absorption chiller which is driven by solar heat, produces cold water that is being pumped into a distribution system. The cooling system is engaged to thermally activated elements like floors, walls and ceilings, by flowing cold water flows through pipes integrated within the listed elements (Waldhö.S, 2014).

Solar energy is also used as a power supply by use of integrated Photovoltaic on the entire roof area.

Installed on the roof of the building on a large scale, Photovoltaic panels supply solar power to the entire complex via eight power inverters. Extensive simulation was necessary to work out the most suitable dimensions and specifications for the PV modules. A custom made sandwich design of 2mm thick glass layers with high elasticity allowed, maintenance work to be performed without shattering of individual panels. Due to complex roof surface, which is curved in three dimensions, it was a challenge to install the panels (Jones, 2010).

•

Adiabatic Cooling towers

Adiabatic coolers are designed to precool the air inlet stream into the heat exchange

coils.

By

increasing

the

relative air humidity, the temperature is lowered to achieve an effective air-onTemperature as low as 5°C above the wet bulb temperature. The system operates by taking the heated fluid from a process through the condenser where for 95% of the year fans draw in cool air, reducing the fluid temperature and returning it at the required temperature to the

process.

Where

the

ambient

temperature is high, adiabatic coolers

Figure 24: Adiabatic cooling towers, retrieved from: https://submer.com/data-center-liquid-immersion-cooling-withadiabatic-cooling-towers/

utilize mains of cold water (through a filter to kill any bacteria) by spraying a fine mist into the incoming fan-induced airflow. This creates a reduced air intake temperature, allowing greater efficiency and improved cooling. The cooling tower plant of the building will consist of V-Type dry coolers equipped 27 | P a g e

with adiabatic air pre-cooling sections which greatly enhance the cooler’s capacity, reducing cooler’s size and allowing process temperatures to be cooled far below ambient temperature. Nevertheless, on the maximum outside design conditions, cooling towers will operate at wet bulb of 30°C with water temperatures 33-40°C on condensate side (Haines, 2014).

•

Soil-air heat exchanger

An earth heat exchanger was constructed to pre-cool the outside fresh air. The fresh air goes in through intake grills that are equipped with sand traps.

The air is suppressed by axial fans, through the heat exchanger which consists of parallel PVC pipes 1200mm in diameter laid at a depth of 5 meters.

The outgoing chamber has a main grill toward the air handling unit chamber and auxiliary bypass grill with duct toward the service platform both with electrically powered on/off actuator. In normal function the main grill is opened, the bypass grill is closed and the fresh air is flowing from outside through the earth exchanger, to the air unit chamber. In bypass mode, the main grill is closed and the bypass grill is opened so the air is flowing through the earth heat exchanger to the service platform. The bypass mode is used for cooling and ventilating the earth heat exchanger when it is out of normal operation (Haines, 2014).

Figure 25: Underground earth heat exchangers pre-cool inlet fresh air 5m under the earth, Retrieved from: http://www.constructionweekonline.com/pics-16264-pictures-sheikhzayed-desert-learning-centre/5

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•

Heat recovery wheel

Additional energy recovery is achieved in the air handling system with the use of an enthalpy heat recovery wheel. A heat recovery wheel, is a type of energy recovery heat exchanger positioned within the supply and exhaust air streams of an air-handling system or in the exhaust gases of an industrial process, in order to recover the heat energy. A heat recovery wheel consists of a circular honeycomb matrix of heat-absorbing material, which is slowly rotated within the supply and exhaust air streams of an airhandling system. As the thermal wheel rotates, heat is picked up from the exhaust air stream in one half of the rotation and given up to the fresh air stream in the other half of the rotation. Thus, waste heat energy from the exhaust air stream is transferred to the matrix material and then from the matrix material to the fresh air stream, raising the temperature of the supply air stream by an amount proportional to the temperature differential between air streams, or "thermal gradient", and depending upon the efficiency of the device. Heat exchange is most efficient when the streams flow in opposite directions, since this causes a favourable temperature gradient across the thickness of the wheel. The principle of course works in reverse, and "cooling" energy can be recovered to the supply air stream if so desired and the temperature differential allows. The heat exchange matrix may be aluminium, plastic, or synthetic fibre. The heat exchanger is rotated by a small electric motor and belt drive system. The motors are often inverter speed controlled for improved control of the leaving air temperature. If no heat exchange is required, then the motor can be stopped altogether. Because of the nature of thermal wheels in the way that heat is transferred from the exhaust air stream to the supply air stream without having to pass directly through an exchange medium, the gross efficiencies are usually much higher than that of any other air-side heat recovery system. The achieved recovery efficiency on temperate side is over 90% and on the humidity side over 75%, all together over 80% in enthalpy recovery (Haines, 2014).

3) Transport Transportation within the building is characterized by easily accessible stairs, energy efficient Lift, Escalators and travellators.

The main entrance which is on ground level contains the Main Stair and Lift System that connect all levels within the building. Stairs and ramp are primary circulation systems in this low-rise building in order to encourage visitors through all exhibit areas. The lifts are additional system that connects all 7 main levels. In public areas vertical travel distance is 16.5 meters and 20.5 meters for all areas.

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Figure 26: Cross Section retrieved from: https://charlestlee.com/technology/how-do-no-flush-urinals-work-the-answer/

4) Water Efficiency Water

conservation

important

is

an

phenomenon

in

extremely the

UAE.

Monitoring the water usage becomes a crucial step in conserving the water. This was achieved by water monitoring and leak detection facilities. In addition to that, very high efficiency fixtures were utilized. Grey water recycling also contributes in water efficiency of SZDLC. Reduction in exterior water use was achieved by using a high efficiency irrigation system called “inline pressure compensating drip line” and “adjustable online drip system”

Figure 27: No flush urinals, retrieved from:https://charlestlee.com/technology/how-do-no-flush-urinalswork-the-answer/

This system saves up to 46 % more water efficient than sprinkler system.. Respectively, the drip irrigation saves up to 8 litres of water per m square every day. An average rainfall in Abu Dhabi is 10mm which is not much, but with the roof area of SZDLC equal to 1500 meters square, saving rain water contributes to water efficiency. The building has water efficient fixtures like Vacuum toilets, waterless urinals, infra- red taps, which has a strong economic and environmental benefit. The conservation of water is directly proportional to the economic

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impact .The payback period of the equipment cost is around two years, when we consider the savings that we have in the operational cost of the building the savings made yearly is dramatic.

Figure 28: Drip line irrigation system, Retrieved from: https://www.hunterindustries.com/irrigation-product/microirrigation/pld

5) Used Materials Estidama promotes the importance to reduce the use of new materials by reuse of recycled materials.

Although SZDLC is an icon for sustainability, the construction materials that have used are virgin materials for this building.

The building has used Low Violet Organic Compound (VOC ), and low emission materials, as well as asbestos free materials, in order to minimize building contamination.

The building envelope is made of concrete and the cladding is made of a light reflective material which is local natural sandstone from Oman.

Secondary materials that have been used externally include: aluminium and steel framed glazing, steel handrails, and steel cabling system for the courtyard shading system. The Types of insulation materials in the building are as follows: Cellular Glass Insulation for raft foundation expanded Polystyrene for walls and roof. The materials that been submitted for are approved based on the conformance with the Zero ODP, Low GMP insulation. All the materials are Chlorine Free and Low in Toxicity.

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6) Land Use There are very few points that the project hasn’t covered in the areas of sustainability according to Estidama guidelines. When we look into the location of the site, the area the new development occupies is an area which does not have any other developments. Estidama requirement has certain amount of points for new buildings being built on sites which have 75% of land previously developed. However the location of the building within a pearl rated community adds to the points. About a third of the building volume is embedded below the ground level of +0.0m. The architectural language and the geometry of the terrain are very much related. The building is very much integrated to its surrounding and the transition from indoors to outdoors is very much blurred. The building is perceived as a built landscape.

All type or plants are UAE native origin, which also help in water conservation.

The project has achieved highest rating in two standards. In LEED is has obtained Platinum rating and in Estidama 5 pearl rating. Sustainability has been covered from the very first stages until post construction phase. By analysis this project is it obvious that in order to achieve a successful green building, the step for sustainability must be followed from very first sketches. There are very few points that the project hasn’t covered in the areas of sustainability and they include: the land use and natural ventilation design.

Workers social welfare program has not been developed for this particular project which coasted the project few points in the rating.

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4.3 THE CRYSTAL CONFERENCE CENTER BY SIEMENS London, UK

OVERVIEW ▪ ▪ ▪

BREEAM & LEED Rating System Architect: Wilkinson Eyre Size: 6,300 square meters

Figure 29: Crystal Conference Centre Source: https://www.thecrystal.org/brochure/en/

BACKGROUND The Crystal Conference Centre with its unique crystalline-shaped, located in the Royal Docks at the heart of the Mayor of London ‘s Green Enterprise District, is an independent global hub for debate on sustainable urban living and improvement. The building designed to be the most sustainable building in the UK and in the world, which achieved the highest rating of BREEAM System and LEED Rating System, and is considered as one of the world’s most innovative and iconic sustainable landmarks, including the highest technology exhibition area on the future of UK cities. The building works with active and passive design elements which makes it more sustainable.

The Centre will be home to Siemens’ global Center of Competence Cities, which is a group of multi-disciplinary urban experts,

Figure 30: Smart System of Crystal Building https://www.thecrystal.org/brochure/en/

who aim to encourage the growth of sustainable cities by partnerships, research and expert collaboration.

Its goal is to create innovative and bold architecture that can harness the benefits of the latest ‘green’ technology. The Crystal is open to the public and city decision makers. It is designed with a conference center that consists of 270 seat auditorium, office space, electric vehicle recharging points and a cafe.

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Sebastien Ricard, the director at Wilkinson Eyre Architects, said: “Our concept for the building seeks to inspire people to see the future of sustainability as an opportunity to be more innovative and improve the quality of the building fabric of our cities”. The Energy Management System of Crystal Building is designed by Siemens and controls all electrical and mechanical systems inside and outside the building.

And the form of the structure is inspired from the crystalline geometry of the architecture a series of angular shapes, creating a connecting architectural point for the city.

Figure 31: Green Building Certification Source: https://www.thecrystal.org/brochure/en/

ACHIEVED CATEGORIES 1) Indoor Quality The Crystal’s natural light works through self-shading system, which allows visible light through windows. The glass has three layers and an Argon gas cavity. Almost every space in the building has access to natural daylight, resulting in minimal demand of artificial light, taking in consideration the natural light during night. The lighting system in the Crystal uses a combination of 65% fluorescent lights and 35% LED lights along with an advanced control system produced by Siemens which automatically adjusts every individual lamp to provide comfortable brightness levels without wasting electricity.

Daylight and presence detectors will dim the electric lighting or turn it off when it is not needed. The Crystal Building Energy Management System senses indoor and outdoor conditions and then controls the most suitable energy efficient ventilation mode for each part of the building. At moderate temperatures, natural ventilation is used and the windows open automatically. The architecture is applied in terms of lighting through the crystal-shaped design which aims to reflect the building's context. A concept of 34 | P a g e

transparency is used to help in connecting the building with its surrounding building and site. This concept is achieved by using highly insulated glass with varying levels of transparency, creating spaces to be naturally lit at the same time controlling solar gain. Moreover, an opaque glazing has been designed to minimize the running costs of the building.

Figure 32: Automatic window for natural ventilation Source: https://www.thecrystal.org/brochure/en/

Figure 33: Natural light graph

2) Energy Efficiency The Crystal is a 100% electric building, around 20% of which is generated by the 1580 m2 of solar photovoltaic roof panels that cover two-thirds of the roof. The facades use high performance solar glass which allows around 70% of visible light through each window but only about 30% of the solar energy.

Energy use in the Crystal is monitored so extensively that every kilowatt of electricity used can be measured. This can then be compared with the performance of other buildings across the world to ensure efficiencies are maintained. Ground source heat pumps supply virtually all of the building’s heating and most of its cooling. The system works by pumping water through a pipe that loops deep into the ground.

There are 199 pipes at the Crystal totaling 17km in length and reaching as deep as 150m. Two ground source heat pumps then create hot and chilled water and pump it to under floor pipes for heating or chilled beams for cooling. Cold water is passed through a ceiling mounted beam so when the rising hot air reaches the chilled beam it cools and sinks, bringing chilled air to those below. Energy is recovered by thermal wheels, outgoing air passes over a heat-absorbing disc which then rotates into the incoming air stream, warming the fresh air. Around 60% of outgoing heat or cooling energy is recovered.

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Figure 34: Solar panel (roof top) Source: https://www.thecrystal.org/brochure/en/

Figure 35: Electricity system graph

3) Transport The Crystal is located on the waterfront at the western end of the Royal Victoria Docks in East London and is characterized well served by public transport. The building provides 15 e-vehicles charging points, 66 bike parking spaces and standard electric car charging points on site. Also, The Crystal is considered as landmark in the area. Public transport is available few minute walk away from the Crystal. It is a 10minute walk from Custom House DLR/rail station, the Centre is within five minutes by taxi of London City Airport and the crystal is assessable via the Emirates Air Line Cable Car from the Greenwich peninsular.

Figure 36: Sustainable transport Source: https://www.thecrystal.org/brochure/en/

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4) Water Efficiency In Crystal building, the rainwater is collected directly from the building’s roof and stored in a 30m³ underground storage tanks. Water is treated using filtration and ultraviolet disinfection. While, thee black water receives the highest level of treatment when it is recycled, passing through a biological tank with two treatment zones (anoxic and aerobic) and two filters (a membrane filter and a long-life carbon filter).

The recycled water is used for irrigation and toilet flushing across the site 100% of WC flushing is taken from our non-potable sources. Around 80% of the building’s hot water is heated by a combination of solar thermal water heating from the roof and ground source heat pumps.

Figure 37: Water system Source: https://www.thecrystal.org/brochure/en/

Figure 38: Water system graph

5) Used Material The material used in the building façade is uniform glass, but it is taken into consideration Optimized Facade Design for each elevation. The all-glass building achieves conventional concepts on sustainability, championing the use of advanced technology to minimize energy use. The building consists of six different types of highly insulated glass, which have been used in the cladding, each with different levels of transparency to moderate solar gain and frame views inside and outside of the building. Reflective glass is worked as the backward-leaning facets to reflect the sun, while transparent glass is used on the inner faces angled towards the ground, with a strategy of highly insulated and airtight cladding. Whereas, the building is characterized by a dynamic architecture and design, which the palette of reflective materials on the facets catches light to create a dynamic composition on the waterfront.

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Figure 39: Façade design/ exterior materials Source: http://www.landezine.com/index.php/2013/01/the-crystal-by-townshend-landscape-architects/

6) Land Use The Crystal has been built on a brownfield site in a historically industrial area. The ground was treated and reclaimed prior to construction. Hard surfaces surrounding the site are made from durable, recycled materials. A green roof covering the building’s energy center provides storm water attenuation and a habitat for a rich variety of plant and animal life. Moreover, the surrounding landscape was designed to be a sustainable urban landscape, which helps encourage a shift in the broader social ideology. The aim was to make ‘sustainability’ more attractive and let the people to participate in social activities within the site, and includes local food programs and community gardens. Whereas, the landscape design objective is to reduce the ecological footprint of this project by specifying materials with a much lower embodied energy than a standard scheme. The hard landscape materials used are also rated ‘grade A’ or greater with the BRE Green Guide to Specification. The plants specified are climate sensitive to reduce water consumption, in turn reducing the maintenance requirement of the development.” (Landezine , 2013).

Where the irrigation system, the water used through ‘black water’ or waste water from the building.

Figure 40: exterior spaces Figure 41: landscape area Source: http://www.landezine.com/index.php/2013/01/the-crystal-by-townshend-landscape-architects/

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Figure 42: Energy Management System of Crystal Building/ explaining all sustainable feature used in CCC Source: https://www.thecrystal.org/about/architecture-and-technology/

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4.4 CENTRE FOR INTERACTIVE RESEARCH ON SUSTAINABILITY UBC British Colombia, Canada

OVERVIEW ▪ ▪ ▪

LEED Rating System Architect: Perkins & Will Size: 5,675 sqm

Figure 43: CIRS (UBC) from exterior view Source: https://archpaper.com/2015/05/perkinswill-builds-a-sustainabilitybeacon/

BACKGROUND The Center for Interactive Research on Sustainability (CIRS) is located on a dense site and next to Sustainability Street at the University of British Columbia. The Centre is for Interactive Research focus on Sustainability [CIRS] houses of 200 researchers from private and public sectors. The Centre aims to not only reduce impact on the environment, but also to develop the lives of its occupants and its society by net positive operation. Is designed as a living laboratory to test sustainable building criteria and accelerate their adoption into urban improvement. The primary objective is to learn from successes and failures researches, ultimately informing future sustainable designs. The 5,675-square-metre structure is one of the few buildings around the world which is considered regenerative. The building achieves netpositive energy, net-zero water, and net-zero carbon in both construction and operations. The building envelope was a critical component of the project’s overall environmental strategy on both conceptual and practical levels. Foit said “The overarching design idea is to communicate sustainability and to make it visible and apparent” (Foit, 2012). The architects focused on reducing heat gain and providing 100% daylighting to the interiors spaces. From “less bad” to “net positive” that concern on two dimensions: Environmental Integrity; energy, water, structural carbon and operational carbon. The second dimension is Human Well-being; health, happiness and productivity.

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ACHIEVED CATEGORIES 1) Indoor Quality To reduce heating and cooling loads in the building, the architects used passive environmental strategies, such as proper solar orientation and glazing ratio, strategic placement of windows for lighting and natural ventilation,

and

solar

control

strategies

such

as

canopies,

overhangs

and

fritted

glass.

The building’s U-shaped plan contributes to the aim of 100% natural daylight and ventilation for all inhabitants. To reduce building energy loads, the design allows occupant control of personal spaces and includes energy-efficient equipment. Whereas, daylighting available in 100% of occupied spaces; solar shades and spandrel panels in the glazing system and the living wall are designed to control glare and heat gain. Moreover, the design of living façade helps to provide shading during the summer and allows warmth from the sun to be absorbed by the building in the winter. The vegetated wall outside the building uses rain or reclaimed water for irrigation. In terms of architecture it gives livable concept to the building.

A heat recovery system captures waste heat in the exhaust ventilation from the fume hoods on the adjacent Earth and Ocean Sciences building, transferring it to the heat pumps in CIRS. The heat pumps provide heating and cooling for the building through the radiant slabs and a displacement ventilation system.

▪

Lighting: Uses daylight to reduce the demand for electric lighting with dimming and occupancy sensors. All horizontal work surfaces are lit by natural sources.

▪

Living wall: Provides cooling through shade during the summer and allows warmth from the sun’s rays to be absorbed by the building in winter. This vegetated wall of vines is three stories tall, and uses reclaimed rainwater for irrigation.

▪

Lecture hall: Uses daylight as its major lighting source. This 423-seat auditorium features stateof-the art audio-visual technology and serves as a classroom for undergraduate courses.

▪

Courtyard located in the middle of the building to have natural ventilation inside the building

▪

Heat Exchange System Collects waste heat from within CIRS building systems and from the adjacent Earth & Ocean Sciences (EOS) building. Surplus heat is returned to EOS.

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Figure 44: Daylighting system at CIRS Source: https://archpaper.com/2015/05/perkinswill-builds-a-sustainability-beacon/

1) Energy Efficiency CIRS harvests sunlight with building-integrated photovoltaics, captures waste heat from a nearby building, and exchanges heating and cooling with the ground to achieve net-positive energy. Buildingintegrated photovoltaics for almost 10% of energy, shade operable windows, and the western facade’s living solar screen is planted with deciduous vines - once grown in, the screen will act as a dynamic shading device that responds to seasonal change. PV panels are applied in the atrium skylight which works as sustainable feature and as architecture feature through reflecting the solar regulations inside the building in the narrow corridor. Sunlight supplies approximately 10% of the building’s demand for electricity and about 60% of the demand for hot water heating. The building used system call Geoexchange System work to Transfers thermal energy between the building and the ground, providing heating in the winter and cooling in the summer. Waste energy system reclaims energy previously released into the air from the nearby Earth and Ocean Sciences building (EOS). Waste energy satisfies 100 percent of the demand for space heating in CIRS. Surplus heat is returned to EOS, reducing UBC’s GHG emissions and use of natural gas.

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Figure 45: Energy Management feature, Retrieved from: https://archpaper.com/2015/05/perkinswill-builds-a-sustainability-beacon/

2) Water Efficiency Through a simple system, rainwater is harvested from the high-albedo roofs, stored in a below-ground cistern, filtered, disinfected on site, and distributed through the building for potable water applications.

Using a solar aquatics bio filtration system, 100% of the building’s wastewater is reclaimed, treated and reused within the facility. Water is collected from fixtures throughout the building, and treated water is reused within the building for irrigation and toilet flushing, creating a closed-loop water cycle. The solar aquatics system is designed to mimic the purification processes of naturally occurring water systems in close proximity to human habitation, such as streams and wetlands. The solar aquatic system is located in a glass walled room at the southwest corner of the building. Highly visible from the West mall and ‘Sustainability Street’ it engages the curiosity of students and other passersby. The CIRS building applied different system to be considered as water-self efficient. Firstly, the rainwater system harvests rainwater from the rooftops, purifies it using filtration and disinfection, and stores it for use in the building. Storm water runoff is redirected through bios wales to the local aquifer. Also, Wastewater treatment system treats campus waste water using solar aquatics and constructed wetland technologies. The reclaimed water can be used to flush toilets and for irrigation.

Figure 46: Water Management System Retrieved from: https://archpaper.com/2015/05/perkinswillbuilds-a-sustainability-beacon/

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3) Used Materials During the design of CIRS, both the ecological and human health impacts of the project’s building materials, as well as the visual and tactile expression of the materials, were considered along with cost, durability, and maintenance requirements. In response, wood was chosen as the primary building material. Produced by the sun and a means of sequestering carbon, wood is one of the most sustainable materials in the world, which also supports an important sector of the regional economy.

The expressed wood structure - constructed of FSC certified and pine-beetle-killed wood - sequesters 600 tons of carbon, helping the project achieve net-zero carbon in construction and operations, the momentframe structure was designed to create an open, column-free floor plate for flexibility of use and interior arrangements, as well as to allow for large openings in the walls that maximize daylight and views.

Moreover, the building used Recycled Materials recycled nylon fiber carpets throughout; recycled rubber flooring in the lobby/atrium and café; fly ash in hydraulic concrete admixtures; recycled concrete pavers and recycled plastic planters, among other materials.

▪

Roof: Laminated Wood, Green Roof on Auditorium, with minimum reflectivity.

▪

Walls: 35% glazing percentage, and White Brick Staircase Enclosures

▪

Windows: Effective U-factor and Solar Heat Gain Coefficient

▪

Recycled material content by value = 20.5%

▪

Proportion of construction waste recycled = 89%

Figure 47: Interior spaces in CIRS, Retrieved from: https://www.raic.org/awards/awards-excellence-%E2%80%94-2015-recipient-1

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4) Land use The CIRS building contributes to improvement of the surrounding environment by using surrounding elements like; water from the sky, heat and cooling from the sun, ground and neighboring buildings. The building sequesters more carbon than was emitted during construction. Usually liquid waste produced by buildings is treated by waste plant, but CIRS’s waste water is treated on site. In the future, it returns more useful energy to campus than it consumes.

Additionally, the building provides green roof which makes a meadow environment for birds, insects, and native plants, and contributes to reducing urban heat island effects.

Figure 48: Land use in the site/ explaining sustainable feature in CIRS Source: https://www.raic.org/awards/awards-excellence-%E2%80%94-2015-recipient-1

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CHAPTER 5 DISCUSSION AUSGRID

ZAYED DESERT

THE CRYSTAL

CENTER FOR

LEARNING

LEARNING

CONFERENCE

INTERACTIVE

CENTRE

CENTER

CENTER

RESEARCH ON SUSTAINABILITY

Indoor Quality

Energy Efficiency

Transport

Water Efficiency

Used Materials

Land Use

-Daylighting usage -Appropriate ventilation -Moisture control -Acoustic control -Non-emission materials

-No natural ventilation implied -Construction IAQ Plan -Mechanical Ventilation systems.

-Energy efficient lighting -Efficient heating\cooling -Motorized louvers -Solar power system

-Passive design -Underground air-cooling - Concrete core activation -Active solar cooling system -Adiabatic Cooling towers -Soil-air heat exchanger -Heat recovery wheel

-Considering walking -Cycling facilities -Pedestrian path

-Energy efficient Lift -Accessible stairs\ramps

-Rainwater capture system -Water efficient fixtures -Ground heat\cooled chillers -Re-used materials -Sustainable timber -Substituting Portland cement with industrial waste products

-Green roof -Local plants in channels

-Natural light -Efficient ventilation -Natural ventilation -Fluorescent and LED -Hight performance with indoor environment quality -CO2 emissions for the Siemens offices -Outgoing heat or cooling energy is recovered -Self-shading facades with high performance solar glass -100% electric building -PV roof panels

-100% natural light -100% ventilation -Control glare and heat gain -Living façade to provide shading -Passive environmental strategies -Photovoltaic array -Geoexhange system to transfer thermal energy -Solar collector array preheats domestic hot water -Waste energy system

-E-vehicles charging -Bike parking spaces -Standard electric car charging points on site -considering pedestrian walking

-Water monitoring & leak detection facilities -Grey water recycling -Adjustable online drip system -Inline pressure compensating drip line -Virgin materials -Low emission materials -Asbestos free materials -Insulation materials

-Blackwater receives the highest level of treatment -Rainwater capture system -Ground heat/cooled chiller -Water efficient fixture

-Rainwater harvesting system -wastewater treatment system -100% saving water -water-self affiance

-Reflective glass -Transparent façade -Highly insulated and airtight cladding -Recycled materials

-Local Plants -Submerged building underground -new land development

-No use of fossil foil -Social active landscape -Plants are climate sensitive -Irrigation system from blackwater -Reduce the ecological footprint

- Effective U-factor,Solar Heat Gain Coefficient -Recycled material -Wood -Construction waste recycled -Recycled concert -green roof which provides a meadow environment - liquid waste is treated on site

Table 1: Comparing the sixth aspects of sustainability in the mentioned projects

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CHAPTER 6 CONCLUSION Building industry needs to follow certain criteria to avoid destruction of our planet. The initiative has been taken by authorities and organisations to create guidelines for sustainable construction. Many rating systems have been developed and they have individual standards and grades, however they all follow green building concept and sustainable design criteria.

Four green buildings have been analysed, to provide a deep understanding of different systems that helped achieve rated buildings that have a significantly reduced impact on our environment. The table 1 shows how each building has approached sustainability either by active or passive strategy or both. We can tell that in all four cases, indoor quality has been achieved by utilization of natural lighting. The Crystal Conference Centre, is the only building which incorporated natural ventilation, however the rest depend on mechanical ventilation. All the buildings utilize photovoltaic panels for energy efficiency. As for water efficiency Ausgrid Learning Centre, Sheikh Zayed Desert Learning Centre and Crystal Conference Centre utilize efficient water fixtures, and all the buildings have rain capturing systems for reuse of the rain water. All the buildings have used recycled materials, except Sheikh Zayed Desert Learning Centre, as it has been constructed by virgin materials. Ausgrid Learning Centre and Center for Interactive Research on Sustainability (CIRS) has utilized green roof as insulation. We can see in the table 1, that all the buildings use similar and different tactics to reduce energy demand From the collected data and explanatory case studies, we conclude that, sustainable building is the future of the construction industry. Initial investment might be higher than a low-performance building, but the returns on the long run, makes it totally worth it.

RECOMMENDATIONS The aim of the sustainable design is to sustain a high quality of community and reflect environmental responsibility in construction of buildings, infrastructure, transport, and landscape. Additionally, sustainable design applies principles and practices of resource conservation and renewable energy design.

According to publication Sustainability Matters, sustainable design objectives are intended to, “reduce consumption of non-renewable resources, minimize waste, and create healthy, productive environments.

Such an integrated approach, positively impacts all phases of a building's life-cycle, including design, construction, operation and decommissioning.” (Integrated Sustainable Building Design, 2017). In another word, the main goals of sustainable design are concentrating on reducing depletion of critical resources such as energy, water, land, and raw materials in order to prevent environmental degradation 47 | P a g e

caused by facilities and infrastructure throughout their life cycle. Moreover, the goal is to create built environments which are liveable, safe, and productive for now and for the future. New principles and strategies keep on emerging on daily basis.

From different rating systems and case study analysis, we have concluded that in order to achieve a sustainable building, certain approaches must be followed. Few of them are: ▪

Optimize Site Potential: The location, orientation, and landscaping of a building, affect local ecosystems, transportation methods, and energy use. The site of a sustainable building should reduce, control, and/or treat storm-water runoff.

▪

Optimize Energy Use: Reduce energy load, increase efficiency, and maximize the use of renewable energy sources in federal facilities. operating net zero energy buildings to significantly reduce dependence on fossil fuels.

▪

Protect and Conserve Water: Sustainable building should seek to minimize the impervious cover created through practices which can decrease those impacts while using water efficiently, and reusing or recycling water for on-site use.

▪

Optimize Building Space and Material Use: Sustainable building should be designed and operated to use and reuse materials in the most productive and sustainable way across its entire life cycle, and is adaptable for reuse during its life cycle.

▪

Enhance Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ): Sustainable building should seek to maximize day lighting, with appropriate ventilation and moisture control, optimizes acoustic performance, and avoid the use of materials with high-VOC emissions. Also emphasize occupant control over systems such as lighting and temperature.

▪

Optimize Operational and Maintenance Practices: Designers can specify materials and systems that simplify and reduce maintenance requirements; require less water, energy, and toxic chemicals /cleaners to maintain; and are cost-effective and reduce life-cycle costs.

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