Category Archives: green building

water conservation

Innovative Water Conservation Methods Unlocked.

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Water conservation methods- What is the need of selecting suitable one?

paani, thanni, vellam, mool, naam plao, neu- uhck… whatever the world calls it by, the necessity and utility of water remains fixed.

Let’s ask the inevitable before diving in to methods for water conservation

What are water conservation methods?

Water conservation methods are techniques to use water efficiently to reduce unnecessary water use.

“Save water, dave the world.” Remember the number of slogans and posters you used to have fun with, when you were a kid? Let’s give a quick look at why we had to do all that (except for scores)

Importance of water conservation methods

The figure shows a girl holding a poster that highlights the importance of water conservation

Regardless of the method of conservation of water, every method stands by the following points;

1) To ensure availability for future generations, the withdrawal of fresh water from an ecosystem should not exceed its natural replacement rate.

2) To save the significant amount of energy needed for water pumping, delivery, and wastewater treatment facilities

3) To preserve fresh water habitats for local wildlife and migrating water flow, as well as reducing the need to build new dams and other water diversion infrastructure.

4) To save money on the utility bills

5) To extend the life of your septic system by reducing soil saturation and reducing pollution due to leaks

You got an idea on why is water conservation necessary. So let’s get our hands into each method for water conservation.

Major water conservation methods

There is a variety of methods of water conservation. We are going to meet some majors here.

The figure shows a method of water conservation in a field

1. Make effective use of soil water reserves

How many times did you have goozebumps looking at nature?

True. Be smart like nature. Soil and water conservation methods include planting deeper rooting crops, such as grasses or cereals that will leverage soil water reserves more effectively than shallower rooting crops such as vegetable crops and therefore can be grown in drier period.

2. Take measures to avoid run off

An important part of conserving anything is avoiding spilling out. When it comes to water, the part played is runoff. This is equally important as the conservation methods of water resources.   The various types of run-off management are those increase water intake and storage and so reduce runoff, control water movement over the soil surface, dispose safely of the excess rainfall as runoff or concentrate inadequate rainfall runoff. Remedial measures such as incorporating plantings especially in areas where runoff collects protecting trees that help absorb and filter runoff, choosing permeable materials for pathways etc. can potentially contribute to reduce run off.

3. Use rainwater effectively

Well, here you need to be very systematic. Check out the full article on rain water conservation methods here: RAINWATER HARVESTING; EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW

4. Rational Use of Groundwater

We should always bear in mind that groundwater is a candy that should not be consumed uncontrollably. Because it takes time to recharge it back to its initial level. Only by conscientious exploitation of groundwater can it be proportionately conserved. For this to happen, ground water conservation methods such as crops requiring less water given priority over crops requiring more water need to be considered. Less water should be used by industries. The necessary drainage area should also be made available for recharging ground water.

5. Redistribution of Water

Two boys carrying water in a can which represents the significance of redistribution of water

Sharing is a great habit that benefits all who are involved in it. Whether it’s knowledge, love, physical goods, anything, right? That’s exactly what it takes to turn the cries of people around the world for water into a smile of gratification. Extensive re-wiring of the supply of water in water conservation system from areas with lower demand to areas with higher demand is needed.

How do you do that?

This can be accomplished through the development of water reservoirs and a network of canals. Excess rainwater that flows away from rivers without being used can be stored by the construction of water reservoirs from which it can be supplied for agriculture, industry, urban areas, etc. These reservoirs are also designed to protect against flooding and, apart from flood protection, they can also be used for a variety of purposes. Water distribution is also possible through the canal system. The canal system transfers water from excess rainwater to scarce rainwater areas and conserves water for various purposes.

Now we have seen 5 methods of water conservation. But we are yet to hit some more wonderful ways to save on water. Moving on…

6. Protection of Water from Pollution

A water body is seen polluted by industrial waste

Pollution is a taboo that has disturbed our ears since the day we can remember. Activities such as disposing of different wastes without treatment in rivers, pollution caused by tourism on lakes and sea coasts, bathing and other similar activities in the vicinity of drinking water sources and Weeds produced in water are the main causes of water pollution.

So how to reduce water pollution?

There is a need for a cooperative policy at international level for conservation of water bodies by regulating oil and nuclear waste in the oceans. Water should become reusable after physical, chemical, mechanical and organic processing processes, and lakes should not be used as outlets for the transport of products.

7. Traditional Water Conservation Methods

Water flow from a pipe made of bamboo below which is a plant, that represents a traditional water conservation method

One of the fascinating practices in every culture is that they have developed innovative techniques for all necessary human needs. Water conservation is no exception to this. If so, then can you think about how would it be in India, the land of diversities.

Traditional water conservation methods in India are,

a) Bamboo Drip Irrigation System

Bamboo is too expensive to use for a low- cost building, but is a boon for people of Meghalaya. Because, they have been leveraging it for water conservation methods in India. This system of water conservation is a brilliant drip irrigation system. It uses bamboo of various sizes and reduces the output to 20-80 drops per minute, which is excellent for betel leaf and black pepper crops.

b) Johads

Johad is a crescent shaped small check dam built from earth and rock to intercept and conserve rainwater in Rajasthan. This helps to improve percolation and increases groundwater recharge.

c) Kul

Kuls are diversion channels that carry water from a glacier to village. Often spanning long distances, with some over 10 km long, kuls have been around for centuries. They are the lifeline of people of Spiti valley of Himachal Pradesh and in Jammu too.

d) Eri

One of the oldest water conservation systems in India of Tamil Nadu is still widely used around the State. With over a third of irrigation in the State being made possible due to Eri, the traditional water harvesting system plays an important part in the agriculture. They also have other advantages such as prevention of soil erosion, recharge of groundwater, and flood control.

e) Zabo

This method of conservation of water in India is a unique combination with animal care, forests and agriculture. Mostly practised in Nagaland, Zabo is used to deal with a lack of drinking water supply. During monsoon, rainwater that falls on the hilltops is collected into the pond like structures that are carved out on the hillsides. The water is then passed onto cattle yards below from where the water enters the paddy fields rich in manure.

See, such still in use water conservation model that tells the beautiful story of water use and conservation doesn’t have copyright and patent problems. It’s open to the whole world. So why can’t we be inspired by them and use suitable conservation method of water in our own lives?

8. Use of Modern Irrigation Methods

On average, 80 percent of the fresh water withdrawn from rivers and groundwater is used to produce food and other agricultural products. Therefore, we need to pay attention to improved methods of irrigation such as sprinkler and drip irrigation that save 50 per cent water.

In the drip irrigation method, the hole pipes are spread over the surface of the soil so that the crop receives water directly. There is no loss due to evaporation and approximately 95% water is used. This process therefore uses maximum water.

9. Increasing Forest Cover

According to recent reports, forests cover 31 percent of the world’s land surface, just over 4 billion hectares which is down from the pre-industrial area of 5.9 billion hectare. This needs to be addressed since trees bear drought conditions for a long duration as compared to crops and they are helpful in reducing the demand for water along with recharging water sources.

10. Flood Management

A family isolated in a building due to flood which shows why flood management is important

Floods carry with it harmful contaminants such as soil, animal waste, salt, pesticides, and oil which can potentially impact drinking water wells and water quality. By construction of embankments and canals a large part of land can be conserved besides minimizing flood losses. Intensive afforestation can also provide security from floods which will be helpful in absorption of water in the soil.

After such disasters, construction of green buildings aided by eco- friendly materials are preferred. Because they are built with all necessary measures for water conservation.

11. Conserving Water in Industries

Water has to be re-used after processing. Recycling of water should be developed because normally industrial units dispose off water on the ground surface after using it only once. Because of not re-using it after processing, it also pollutes other water sources. Water demand can also be reduced by recycling used water in industries.

12. Reuse of Urban Waste

Demand for water has increased in cities due to increasing urbanization. There is no provision for waste water treatment in many cities of various countries of the world. After use of water in urban areas, disposed waste water can be treated and conserved for use in agriculture in the peripheral areas of cities. Such policies should be incorporated while planning urban development.

13. Population Control

The world’s population is growing by approximately 80 million people every year. Changes in lifestyles and eating habits in recent years require more per- capita water consumption. Biofuel production has also increased sharply in recent years, with a significant impact on the demand for water. It’s obvious that a controlled population can avoid a tug of war for water by reducing the demand as well as the quali­tative deterioration of water.

14. Water conservation by Municipal bodies

According to the World Economic Forum’s 2015 Global Risk report, around one third of the global population is currently water stressed, with about one billion people not getting safe drinking water. the water crisis is perceived as a top-order threat. In this nerve wracking situation, a governing body is indeed and they should exhort awareness on how to conserve water and capacity building among people.

15. Use of water from hot waterfalls

Figure shows a water fall that are used as a water source

Scientifically, there are hypotheses that negative ions that are present in waterfalls increase serotonin levels, which ultimately enhances our mood. Wah! That’s great. And this geothermal water serves as a source too in the battle against water scarcity.

Now let’s sneak into the fun and exciting section which introduces the brand new updates on the topic.

WHAT’S TRENDING:

  • Geographic Information System (GIS), a computer system capable of holding and using data describing places on earth surface has been found to be applicable to monitor ground water resources as well as to ensure water availability in remote and rural villages.
  • Artificial intelligence(AI) can be leveraged for optimal usage of ground water which prevents over depletion of water table. Government has linked port with IBM India for undertaking pilot study to utilise AI and weather technology for developing navel features like soil sensor to avoid over irrigation
  • Biotechnology, a significant branch that contributes to COVID-19, has been successful to develop drought tolerant crops and salt tolerant crops that saves water for irrigation
  • Space technology helps through advent of hydrological mapping via satellite, weather forecasting that reduce uses of water in agriculture
  • Electrostatic precipitates, ionic filter and pipe that precipitates organic and inorganic pollutants at the discharge and groundwater recharging technology helps to save water at home

Now let me give you a water conservation tip. If you still feel like lazing out to adopt any conservation method of water, try to imagine a day without water!

Vincivil FAQ Corner:

1. Define water conservation

Water conservation refers to the preservation, control and development of water resources, both surface and groundwater, and prevention of pollution. The extent to which conservation is possible depends on the types of water conservation methods.

2. Water conservation methods at home

Use of water-saving dishwashers and clothes washers, installation of water saving shower heads or flow restrictors, taking shorter showers, checking your toilet for leaks are best solutions on how to save water at home.

3. Water conservation methods in agriculture

Making sure of the quality of soil, crop rotation practices, installation of better watering systems, storing of rain water and optimal usage are robust water conservation methods for agriculture.

4. 10 ways to conserve water

Conservation awareness, using less water when doing laundry, planting native plant species in your yard, turning off water when brushing your teeth, tracking cooling tower water, repairing leaks, having a home energy audit, installing faucet aerators, wait until you have a full dishwasher to operate the unit and reducing overuse of water are 10 recommended strategies for water conservation.

water conservation

RAINWATER HARVESTING METHODS-EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW

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Rainwater harvesting methods are the processes in which precipitation that falls on a site is diverted, captured, and stored for use on-site, as opposed to allowing it to run off, evaporate, or infiltrate into the soil. Let’s get to know it in the best way through the course of journey in the blog.

 “Slanting silver ropes slammed into loose earth, plowing it up like gunfire”- When Arundhati Roy described the rain as beautifully like this, how many of us thought we are taking the boon of no cost from nature. It’s high time that we understood the worth of various rainwater harvesting methods in our lives.                     

Let’s start from scratch.

How rainwater harvesting methods are important?

This is a sad story of ground water. It all started with the over population. water supply agencies became unable to cope up demand from surface sources like dams, reservoirs, rivers etc. They resorted to ground water sources by digging tube-wells in order to augment the water supply. Indiscriminate exploitation of ground water resulted in lowering of water table rendering many bore-wells dry. To overcome this, we started to drill bore wells to greater depths. The exploitation of ground water in brutal unscientific methods by soft drinks, mineral water and similar industries further declined ground water table. The solution to all these problems is to replenish ground water bodies with water conservation like leveraging rain water by man made means.

That’s it. And we are here to know the hero of the story, Rain water to solve all these issues.

Let’s look at its components now.

Components of rainwater harvesting methods

Rainwater conservation is a must need element of every green building. Let’s see the components below.

1. Catchment area

The catchment area is the surface on which the rain water falls. This may be a roof top or open area around the building.

2. Coarse mesh / leaf screen

To prevent the entry of leaves and other debris in the system, the coarse mesh should be provided at the mouth of inflow pipe for flat roofs

3. Gutter

Gutter is required to be used for collecting rainwater from sloping roof and to divert it to downspout. These are the channels all around the edge of a sloping roof to collect and transport rain water to the storage tank.

4. Down spout or conduit

The rain water collected on the roof top is transported down to storage facility through down spouts / conduits. Conduits can be of any material like PVC, GI or cast iron.

5. First flushing device

A first flush system is incorporated in the rooftop to harvest rainwater by avoiding all the debris, dirt, and other contaminants especially bird dropping, etc. accumulated on the roof during the dry season. The first flushing device, dispose of the first spell of rainwater so that it does not enter the system.

6. Filter

The filter unit is basically a chamber filled with filtering media such as fiber, coarse sand and gravel layers to remove debris and dirt from water before it enters the storage tank.

7. Settlement tank

The settlement tank facilitates the settling down of suspended materials like silt and other floating impurities before the water recharge the aquifer.

8. Storage tank

Storage tanks are used when the water from the rain water harvesting is used directly for various purposes.

Okay. That’s done. Now we are getting into the important part which is how to make rainwater harvesting.

RAINWATER HARVESTING METHODS- DETAILED

1. Storing rain water for direct use

Fig. Storing rainwater for direct use

In place where the rains occur throughout the year, rain water can be stored in tanks However, at places where rains are for 2 to 3 months, huge volume of storage tanks would have to be provided. In such places, it will be more appropriate to use rain water to recharge ground water aquifers rather than to go for storage. If the strata is impermeable, then storing rain water in storage tanks for direct use is a better method. Similarly, if the ground water is saline/unfit for human consumption or ground water table is very deep, this is one of the best rain water harvesting methods that can be applied.

2. Recharging groundwater aquifers, from rooftop runoff

Fig. Recharging ground water aquifers from roof top run off

In this groundwater harvesting, rain water that is collected on the roof top of the building may be diverted by drain pipes to a filtration tank from which it flows into the recharge well. The recharge well should preferably be shallower than the water table. This method of rain water harvesting is preferable in the areas where the rainfall occurs only for a short period in a year and water table is at a shallow depth.

Alright. That’s it about second in the list of rainwater harvesting methods. How to increase groundwater level further?

3. Recharging groundwater aquifers with runoff from the ground area

Fig. Recharging ground water aquifers with runoff from ground areas

The rain water that is collected from the open areas may be diverted by drain pipes to a recharge dug well / bore well through filter tanks. The abandoned bore well/dug well can be used cost effectively for this purpose.

Now you have become a savvy in rain water harvesting methods. But this is not all. Even if you have completed all the procedures with at most care, precautions should be taken to ensure quality of water. Let’s see them.

1. Roof over which water falls, should be cleaned before rain fall.

2. The suitable type of first flushing device to be installed and initial 10 to 15 minutes of runoff should be diverted.

3. The water collected from roof top only, should be stored in storage tank for direct use.

4. The runoff from surface/ground should be preferably be used for recharging ground water aquifers after proper filtration.

5. The rain water collected from roof top should pass through suitable type of filter and only then it should be stored in storage tank / used for recharging ground water aquifers.

We are almost near of completion. its time to look at the results of your efforts.

Advantages of rain water harvesting methods are,

 (a) Promotes adequacy of underground water

 (b) Mitigates the effect of drought

(c) Reduces soil erosion as surface run-off is reduced

(d) Decreases load on storm water disposal system

(e) Reduces flood hazards

(f) Improves ground water quality / decreases salinity (by dilution)

(g) Prevents ingress of sea water in subsurface aquifers in coastal areas 6

(h) Saving rainwater improves ground water table, thus saving energy (to lift water)

(i) The cost of recharging subsurface aquifer is lower than surface reservoirs

(j) The subsurface aquifer also serves as storage and distribution system

(k) No land is wasted for storage purpose and no population displacement is involved

(l) Storing water underground is environment friendly

But all these doesn’t earn you a penny. Below are the points that illustrates how rain water harvesting methods can add to your pockets.

Energy savings

  • Rainwater collector systems are typically designed to be gravity fed.
  • Storage areas are typically lower elevation, so a pumping system is generally required for intended reuse.
  • Since collected rainwater is generally used close to its capture, the energy needed to convey the water tends to be minimal.
  • Compared to conveyance from other supplied sources of water rainwater harvesting methods would likely have lower energy costs.
  • Systems are simple and tend to be robust. Monitoring and maintenance require additional effort. This includes maintenance of roofs used as collection areas, cleaning of gutters, maintenance of storage tanks and vaults, puumps and maintenance of water treatment systems

Water savings

  • A reasonable goal for an aggressive rooftop collection for a custom building could be to reduce domestic water supply by 40 to 50% for that building; this would then allow the building to meet LEED goals for sewage reduction.

Well… limitations too are important to see if it’s worth trying.

Happy to see the cost savings? Then you should definitely check out A BUILDING AT ZERO COST!!

Disadvantages of rain water harvesting methods are,

  • Unpredictable Rainfall
  • Initial High Cost
  • Regular Maintenance
  • Certain Roof Types may Seep Chemicals or Animal Droppings
  • Storage Limits

Now, it’s up to your decision on which of the above rainwater harvesting methods you want to adopt. But I would say this is an offer you can’t refuse.

Vincivil FAQ CORNER

What is the main purpose of rainwater harvesting methods?

The main aim of rainwater harvesting methods is to use locally available rainwater to meet water needs during the year without the need for major capital expenditure.

How to catch rainwater?

The rain would accumulate in the gutters that would funnel the water into the downpours and then into some kind of storage vessel. Rainwater collection systems can be as easy as gathering rain in a rain barrel or as complex as storing rainwater in large cisterns to supply your entire household demand.

How rainwater harvesting methods are done?

Rainwater harvesting methods extract the run-off from a building or other impervious surface to be preserved for later use . The rain would accumulate in the gutters that would funnel the water into the downpours and then into some kind of storage vessel.

How rainwater harvesting methods work?

Rainwater collection systems collect rainwater by transferring it from large surfaces to underground or overground storage tanks. The rainwater harvested is filtered and then pumped directly to the appliances or header tank.

What are the rainwater harvesting methods at home?

There are several techniques such as Storage of direct use, recharging groundwater aquifers, recharging of bore wells, recharge pits, soakway or recharge shafts, recharging of dug wells etc.

How do you make a rainwater harvesting pit?

Excavation is to be performed before soft dirt, weathered rock or fracture is reached.   You need jelly of different sizes and sand at the top of the pit. The big jelly at the bottom creates large gaps for the water to pass through.

What are the two important rainwater harvesting methods?

Surface runoff harvesting and rooftop rainwater harvesting are the main two methods of rain water harvesting.

What are the main uses of rainwater harvesting methods?

  • Non-potable uses, such as toilet flushing, irrigation, dust control, and vehicle washing. Some of these applications may require specialized plumbing.
  • Potable water uses including drinking water, food preparation, showering, and washing.

green building

Concept of Green Building- 4 comprehensive concepts easy read!

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Concept of green building is a buzz word at present, right? Because it has been a now or never situation to save nature. Therefore, you will come to understand the concept of green building and complete details in the blog.

Why concept of green building is important?

i. Protect occupant health

ii. Optimal environmental and economic performance

iii. Reduce overall impact to the environment

iv. Quality indoor spaces

v. Improve employee productivity

vi. Use energy, water and other resources more efficiently

vii. Increased market value of the building

Now that you have the answer to the big y, shall we move on to the main elements to incorporate the concept of green building in your home?

Let’s dig in systematically and find out what exactly each concept of green building implies.

a.)First Concept of green building- Powerful sites

  1. Site selection

A canvas is as important as the drawing brush. So is a site of construction in concept of green building. The following points are to be considered diligently.

  • Set preliminary environmental performance targets

A well revised plan is the ablest key. The plan should take into account the inevitable like water, energy, materials, waste, the mode of construction, indoor environmental quality, and economic performance.

  • Select appropriate land

We have two options in handy during a hunt for a building. Either we can renovate existing structures or select a land. If you are going for later, make sure that is a short walk from public transit, pedestrian and bicycle routes, exists in an already-urbanized area, is walking distance from amenities, is already serviced by the requisite urban infrastructure (roads, utilities, etc.), is a brownfields site and remediate it, allows infill development and allows mixed-use development. And the important point to be noted is that the land shouldn’t come under any restricted zones such as farmlands, the natural habitat of wildlife, wetlands, waterways.

2. Site design

This is a vital facet of the concept of green building and opens up wide possibilities to embed creativity of a civil engineer for the purpose. It includes,

A. Protect or enhance site’s ecological integrity and biodiversity

The color green itself highlights the importance of this aspect. The construction should be such that it preserves the site’s natural areas, re-establishes damaged native ecosystems and makes connections between the natural ecology of the site and natural systems both within and beyond the site.

B. Reduce or eliminate disturbance to water system

You can celebrate your life with the natural water conservation methods by making them into attractive landscape elements. Also increase site infiltration where soil conditions allow by maintaining the natural pervious landscape or designing a pervious landscape. Use pervious surfaces for as much as possible of the surfaces that are usually paved where soil conditions permit. capturing rainwater for site or building use is also a simple act to contribute to this.


C. Reduce urban heat islands

Maximize green space through the clever designing techniques including native gardens, trellises, roof gardens, green walls etc. and provide shade on impervious surfaces where high-albedo materials cannot be used.

D. Design infrastructure to support alternative transportation

In between the continuous run to balance work and life, there is no way you can compromise on this aspect. Location of the building should be such that it has access to public transit, bike routes, and pedestrian routes. And the feature should encourage walking, bicycling and battery operated vehicles, by designing attractive, safe pedestrian and cycling infrastructure.

3. Building orientation& configuration

The orientation of the building and the configuration of each element is significant to make a strong connection with nature. Use existing and proposed trees & plantings to reduce heating, cooling, and lighting loads and utilize the site resources to reduce building loads and enhance indoor environmental quality. Finally, orient the building to optimize prevailing winds and solar opportunities.

b.) Second concept of Green building- Wizardry in construction

Figure shows an engineer explaining concepts for the crew

After setting up the site, the next concept of green building is obviously construction. Here, we have the opportunity to take out the technical skills to weave the green blanket for our building.

i. Design stage

  • Choose environmental friendly materials

Try to use recycled and efficient materials, Use locally harvested or manufactured materials and materials that cause very less damage to nature as much as possible. You can find more elaborate details in A JOURNEY TO ECO- FRIENDLY MATERIALS

  • Design for reuse

Design a structure that allows for changes in use over time.Select building systems that can be deconstructed at the end of the building’s useful life.This is where the importance of a good design team arises.

  • Design envelope

Design envelope to reduce heating, cooling, lighting, and ventilation loads. Also it should incorporate all possibilities that make it energy efficient and allows for maximum natural light without glare and pollution and maximum wind intake. Remember to consider individual control for all the features because that is a determining factor of the comfort of the residents.

  • Reduce or prevent the use of potable water to treat human waste

Installation of water-efficient toilet fixtures and alternative wastewater technologies like constructed wetlands and monitoring the usage with something like water meters is very efficient to make sure that we protect each drop of water and ourselves.

  • Reducing impact of environment

While ozon depletion is growing on a daily bases, let’s do our bit to reduce it.Use HVAC systems, refrigerants and fire-suppressant equipment that do not contain CFCs, HCFCs or Halons.

ii. Building stage

  • Prevent erosion during construction

The prevention of erosion is important because properly done, it will also prevent the accompanying air pollution, and sedimentation of streams and storm sewers. Different strategies like maintaining or providing vegetated ground cover and controlling erosion with mulch or grass can be done.

  • Minimize the disposal of construction waste

A formal waste management plan can be adopted for minimizing the construction waste envisaging reuse, recycle or salvage the waste for later reuses.

c.) Third Concept of green building -Showering aura through energy & water efficiency

This is the highlight of the concept of green building. First, let’s close the deal with energy efficiency.

Thanks to technology and the human quest for innovation, new techniques and strategies are emerging every day. Smart home technology is one of the blessings in which interesting products like highly programmable thermostats reduce your heating and cooling bills and saves the environment by reducing energy production. Furthermore, your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system works more efficiently, meaning less wear-and-tear on the system and longer life.

Another remarkable trend is energy star windows that reduce heating and cooling costs and thereby rise in home values. To boost the windows’ insulating effect, you can draw blinds in both summer and winter. Also, seal all air leaks in the house with caulk or weather stripping and clean and change furnace filters frequently. Having all the new lessons taken, don’t forget your roots. Aid renewable energy as much as possible.

So, you have set up your home for better energy treatment.

Now let’s see the practices for methodical water management.

Use rainwater collected for suitable domestic purposes and Install tank less water heaters, which heat up water at the source that avoids having to run the tap to bring hot water from a remote water heater. See more details about rainwater harvesting at RAINWATER HARVESTING; EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW. Consider fixtures and appliances that conserve water such as low flow faucet aerators. And home automation can help you too in monitoring, measuring, and controlling water usage. Another thing worth doing is systematic wastewater management. Wastewater can be recycled using recharging pits and used for landscape watering. Moving onto another concept of green building,

d.) Fourth Concept of green building- Rating tools to standardize

Congrats! You have the whole concept of green building ready to receive you now. Next you need to know how to market it with verification. Here is the significance of rating tools. These tools can even help you gain incentives for clients. Building rating and certification systems are in a state of change and evolution and continue to be refined to reflect new standards and goals. So it is essential to investigate the most current versions of these programs to gain an understanding of particular requirements that must be met in order to achieve the best results.

There are a number of green building rating tools that exist but are not administered by a World Green Building Council. Let’s look at some of the tools which are administered by them.

1. BREEAM or Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method started in the UK where it is now a voluntary initiative in the private sector and compulsory in the public sector. Points are awarded in line with sustainable approaches to energy and water use, internal environment, pollution, transport, materials, waste, ecology, management processes and the life-cycle of buildings.

 2. LEED or Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design started in the US and is now popular worldwide as well as in North America. It covers new, existing, commercial and residential property and is concerned with energy, atmosphere, water efficiency, materials, resources and indoor environmental quality.

3. HQE (High Quality Standard) is a French initiative. Not as widely adopted as LEED or BREEAM, HQE is still committed to common aims including reducing energy and water use, minimal environmental impact on surroundings, a healthy internal environment and the full life-cycle of a building. It covers new and existing buildings from commercial properties to multi-family housing.

4. DGNB (German Sustainable Building Council) focuses on around 50 criteria ranging from environmental, economic, technological and work process aspects to sociocultural and functional dimensions. “A holistic approach is taken” meaning the system assesses the entire lifecycle of the building. Buildings are awarded DGNB certificates in bronze, silver or gold. In addition, there is the option of simple precertification in the planning phase.

5. WELL focus on “advancing health and well-being in buildings” through issues such as thermal and acoustic comfort and good air quality.

Drop a message in the comment section to reach out to us for Green Building Consultancy Services. Let’s make the bond for a lifetime of prosperity by sharing the joy with green.

green building

Green walls/Living walls – Types – Advantages

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 May 25, 2020  

Green walls are independent vertical structures attached to the wall provided with a medium for plants and attached built-in irrigation systems. We are living in a polluted environment, hence it is advisable to maintain trees and plants that purify the air and makes us free, fresh and energetic. This article is about green walls and their healing benefits.

The green walls are the best option to make us feel close to nature. The concept of Green walls is getting popular nowadays. It was earlier confined to commercial and residential establishments. They are slowly getting into the residential atmosphere as an architectural concept. Surprisingly the green walls are much more than a back to nature architectural concept.

WHAT ARE GREEN WALLS?

Green walls consist of plants grown in a medium and placed on horizontal walls using a framing system. The system members are assembled structurally and fixed to the wall. The system includes both automatic and manual watering facilities.

Also read : Green Roofs- Types, Features and Advantages 

Green walls
Green walls

BENEFITS OF GREEN WALLS

Environmental and healing benefits

Plants naturally take in carbon dioxide and absorb pollutants and then expel fresh, clean oxygen. Green walls make us happier and energetic with their close to natural abilities. They can lift our moods and help us to forget the feel of a busy urban atmosphere. It is a proven fact that nature can heal a lot of human behaviourism like anxiety, depression, aggression stress, mental fatigue etc. Ashrams built across the world are full of greenery and are the best destinations for healing minds.

Architectural and visual appeal

They are visually appealing and give an entirely different feel from the conventional interiors. The space looks bright, charming and pleasing due to the presence of living walls.

Indoor green walls system
Indoor green walls system

Energy efficiency

The outdoor green walls are energy efficient as they can reduce the heat transmission to the interiors in areas where they are exposed to direct sunlight. The transpiration process of plants can reduce indoor heat to an extent and function as an energy-efficient solution. Transpiration is a process in which the plants release water in the form of moisture or water vapour.

Acoustic properties of green walls

Vertical gardens have good acoustic properties. Indoor vertical gardens absorb high-frequency noises.

Improving air quality

Environmental pollution is the biggest challenge we are facing nowadays due to industrialisation. Being close to nature can reverse the urbanisation effect to some extent. Apart from the action of photosynthesis plants are known to absorb poisonous gases by purifying the air. Studies show that they can reduce harmful pollutants to an extent of about 25-30 %.

Recreating eco systems.

The vertical gardens can recreate a missing natural ecosystem in the urban areas.

natural ecosystem
natural ecosystem

Biophilic effects ( productivity increase) of Green walls

Being close to plants can have a positive impact on an individual’s well being. Studies have shown that even seeing nature while working can increase job satisfaction. The installation of a green wall also makes the employees feel at ease with the companies commitment to maintaining a healthy work environment. By spending about 8 -12 hours in offices people develop a lot of discomforts due to inadequate ventilation, chemical indoor pollutants etc. Vertical gardens reduces such discomforts to an extent.

working environment
working environment

Leeds certification

Green walls are an internationally recognised green building certification (LEEDS) system. They help in transforming the design, construction and operation of buildings. Vertical gardens can secure LEEDS points due to their eco-sensitive and sustainable solutions in terms of water usage and environmentally friendly qualities. The LEEDS certification tends to increase the property values too. For more details about LEEDS certification refer the article “LEED certification India- A comprehensive guide”

Living walls contain a large number of plants placed horizontally in a relatively small area. This can provide the maximum benefit, as they are installed using minimal floor space.

INDOOR AND OUT DOOR GREEN WALLS

OUT DOOR WALLS

Outdoor living walls are visual elements and the plants chosen are to be in line with the prevailing climatic conditions of that area. The plants have to look good, absorb rainwater, insulate buildings and have to be cost-effective.

Outdoor vertical Garden
Outdoor vertical Garden

INDOOR WALLS

Unlike outdoor plants, indoor plants have space restrictions, size restrictions and species restrictions. The plant choice will be limited to indoor plants with air purification abilities. This system is suited to be fixed lengthwise than height wise for easy maintenance.

Hence it can be concluded that green walls are not a mere architectural concept for visual appealing , but an environmental friendly, sustainable, energy efficient, accounting option which can give mental peace, and feel the nurturing of nature.