Activity 2.3.2

1.    Rainfall falls on most parcels of property throughout the world. Describe one method that could be used to collect this natural resource.

One method that could be used to collect wasted rainwater would be by using rain barrells. This simple method involves placing barrells at the end of a gutter spout, collecting all of the rainwater falling on your house.

Website: http://www.watercache.com/education/rainwater-how/

 

2.  Describe an innovative construction method or technique that benefits the environment.

One innovative method would be to use adobe. Adobe is using mud combinations as the walls. This is very efficient, and is uses completely waste-free materials for the walls.

Website: http://www.consumerenergycenter.org/home/construction/earth.html

3.   During the construction cycle of the building, materials and components are delivered to the site. List a strategy that you will use to recycle the waste produced during the construction phase. 

One strategy would be to use these excess materials on the next project. This would save money and also would not contribute as much waste as buying new materials that you dont need.

Website: http//http://constructionwaste.sustainablesources.com/

4.  Energy use is high in commercial buildings. What might a designer do to reduce energy consumption in a building?

One method a designer could use is to systematically place windows so that at the time the building is typically in use, the sun will be used as much as it can through the windows as lighting. This would utilize the sun-light, taking away the need for lighting to be used, which would decrease energy consumption.

Website:  http://life.gaiam.com/article/how-use-natural-sunlight-increase-warmth-your-home

5.   Building sites offer natural resources that can be utilized for the life of the building. Describe a method to use a site’s natural resources in the construction of the structure.        

A method of using the cites natural resources for construction would be vernacular architecture. This means utilizing the materials from the surrounding area for the construction of a building.

Website: http://www.archdaily.com/155224/vernacular-architecture-and-the-21st-century/

Conclusion

1.    Describe an original green and sustainable idea that you have. Choose one that is not currently in use as far as you know.

An idea that i have involves the collecting of rainwater. Somehow, collecting water from not just the roof of a house, but the yard would be a great way to save resources and money. A way to do this might involve underground collecting systems and pipes.

2.    Describe an improvement that you believe could be made to the building where you live. Describe why it is an improvement.

An improvement that i could make to my house would be to add a more efficient heating system. As far as i know, we have a very old heater using air ducts and a fernace. This could be made more efficient by improving on the ducts, insulation, etc., or completely replacing the system.