Net-zero building is more necessary than ever. Through the climate crisis and the current public health crisis of the pandemic, focusing on reducing emissions and harmful impacts must become the norm. Before the world can achieve such a progressive future, though, the building industry must first make several changes.

Time for a Change

Buildings and building construction make up roughly 33% and 40% of global energy consumption and global carbon emissions, respectively. As they are now, these numbers are far too great to be sustainable or healthy. The industry must move forward with more sustainable technology, like renewable energy sources.

Net-zero buildings entail more energy efficiency in the construction and usage phases. That way, each step of the process is as least harmful to the environment as possible. Then, buildings could possibly account for about 41% of energy savings globally by 2035, instead of emissions and usage.

The best way to achieve that goal is through net-zero buildings. However, before the world can get to that step, it needs to reevaluate the industry. Global temperatures are increasing and severe weather conditions are becoming more destructive. Architects, engineers and construction workers need to account for these conditions, and the blackouts they cause, when creating any building. 

On top of this need, they must make everything sustainable. These responsibilities are daunting, no doubt. Taking it step by step and focusing on net-zero building, though, is the solution. 

Sustainability Through Design

The future of net-zero building must focus on impact. This kind of design is beneficial for the environment, but it must occur on a national and global level. To achieve it, all governments must increase regulations and prioritize the environment. They must channel funding towards renewables and sustainable technologies.

For instance, California will phase out new gas cars by 2035 — a feat that must happen in all states for buildings that consume too much energy and run on fossil fuels. However, the building industry can’t rely on the government too heavily and must take matters into its own hands. 

These are the best practices to take into account:

• Renewable energy is a necessity. As prices continue to decrease, solar and wind have become more tangible than ever. They must become the foundation for existing and new buildings.

• Reducing energy waste will come in the form of using energy-efficient technologies, lights and water systems. With more conservation, buildings are less harmful.

• It’s also critical for architects and engineers to focus on natural lighting and passive HVAC systems. These two dynamics reduce the need for artificial lighting and heating and cooling. Instead, nature automatically does the work.

These three areas are the foundational elements of creating a better industry. However, it’s important to focus on the subtler factors, too. For instance, in the future, the industry must turn away from traditional cement, the process of which emits carbon. Newer alternatives to cement are more sustainable and just as reliable, like fly ash or limestone.

With these steps, the industry can achieve more official certifications of progress. Then, the future of net-zero building becomes clear. Reducing emissions and energy consumption are the near-future goals. The long-term commitment will be becoming carbon neutral. 

Where Net-Zero Is Going

This progressive form of design shows the path that the building industry is heading towards. New examples are already popping up.

In San Francisco, California and in New Haven, Connecticut, new hotels are going net-zero and changing the industry. The William Penn Hotel in San Francisco is using solar panels, natural lighting and progressive ventilation to create a beneficial place to live for individuals who were previously homeless. 

Building professionals in New Haven are turning the former Armstrong Rubber Company building into a new hotel with environmentally-friendly solutions. These hotels could now be safe spaces for any individual during the current pandemic as well. 

These two examples are just the beginning of what’s possible. If the world moves forward on a collective scale, the future of net-zero will be a pillar of progress in improving the health of the public and the environment. 

Improving the World

With net-zero building as the goal for the immediate future and for the long run, the world can heal from climate change. In addition, cleaner air and more sustainable buildings provide aid during crises like the pandemic or homelessness. The focus on the environment ultimately benefits everyone. The time is now to take action and change the industry to change the world.

Author Bio: Jane is an environmental writer who covers topics in sustainable construction and green building materials and the editor-in-chief of Environment.co.

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