Construction and the Environment
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- Date Submitted: 02/28/2011 02:02 AM
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Construction and the Environment
1) Select and describe a fit –for-purpose sustainable construction technique for each of the following issues; energy, materials and waste
Energy
Greener buildings often include measures to reduce energy use. To increase the efficiency of the building they may use high-efficiency windows and insulation in walls, ceilings, and floors. Solar water heating further reduces energy loads.
Onsite generation of renewable energy through solar power, wind power, hydro power, or biomass can significantly reduce the environmental impact of the building. Power generation is generally the most expensive feature to add to a building.
Solar power
The term solar power is used to describe a number of methods of harnessing energy from the sun. As fossil fuel sources deplete and environmental concerns about greenhouse gasses increase, renewable energies such as solar power are increasing in popularity across the world including the UK.
There are two types of solar power-solar electric power which use photovoltaic cells to convert solar radiation into electricity, and solar thermal energy where the sun’s energy is used to heat water. Photovoltaic cells consist of one or two layers of a semi conducting material which is usually silicon. When light shines on the cell it creates an electric field across the layers, causing electricity to flow. The greater the intensity of the light the greater the flow of electricity. Solar thermal energy is a relatively simple process where water is pumped into solar panels and, as it passes through them, is heated and then stored in a tank ready for use. The new systems that are being made today can keep the water hot for good periods of time.
In both cases solar panels are usually fitted to the roof and work during daylight hours, however with a new house being built from the ground-up it may be possible to integrate them more seamlessly into the house. It is a misconception that solar panels only work...
1) Select and describe a fit –for-purpose sustainable construction technique for each of the following issues; energy, materials and waste
Energy
Greener buildings often include measures to reduce energy use. To increase the efficiency of the building they may use high-efficiency windows and insulation in walls, ceilings, and floors. Solar water heating further reduces energy loads.
Onsite generation of renewable energy through solar power, wind power, hydro power, or biomass can significantly reduce the environmental impact of the building. Power generation is generally the most expensive feature to add to a building.
Solar power
The term solar power is used to describe a number of methods of harnessing energy from the sun. As fossil fuel sources deplete and environmental concerns about greenhouse gasses increase, renewable energies such as solar power are increasing in popularity across the world including the UK.
There are two types of solar power-solar electric power which use photovoltaic cells to convert solar radiation into electricity, and solar thermal energy where the sun’s energy is used to heat water. Photovoltaic cells consist of one or two layers of a semi conducting material which is usually silicon. When light shines on the cell it creates an electric field across the layers, causing electricity to flow. The greater the intensity of the light the greater the flow of electricity. Solar thermal energy is a relatively simple process where water is pumped into solar panels and, as it passes through them, is heated and then stored in a tank ready for use. The new systems that are being made today can keep the water hot for good periods of time.
In both cases solar panels are usually fitted to the roof and work during daylight hours, however with a new house being built from the ground-up it may be possible to integrate them more seamlessly into the house. It is a misconception that solar panels only work...