Embracing Sustainable Architecture in the Philippines
Sustainable Architecture in the Philippines
Architects in the Philippines are actively embracing sustainable architecture. This eco-friendly design approach aims to minimize negative environmental impacts and promote climate resilience. It also aims to improve the quality of living spaces.
This is especially true for residential homes. One such example is the Tiarra Premiere Homes designed by Imperial Homes, Inc. It features a wide array of green measures that make it highly energy-efficient and environmentally friendly.
Energy efficiency
In the Philippines, energy efficiency is a key aspect of sustainable architecture. Buildings are designed to reduce the use of artificial lighting and air conditioning while incorporating renewable energy sources like solar panels. This allows them to operate with lower utility bills.
Green architects also focus on using materials that improve indoor air quality. For example, they incorporate low VOC paints and finishes to avoid harmful chemicals that can contaminate the air. These products also minimize health risks for occupants.
IFC’s EDGE tool can help developers and builders find the most cost-effective strategies to construct resource-efficient buildings. The results will be a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, energy consumption, and water usage. Achieving net zero operation will allow the buildings to produce more energy than they consume.
Water conservation
Architects are facing the challenges of climate change, environmental preservation, energy efficiency, and clean water. In order to address these issues, architects are adopting green design principles and practices. This shift is a smart move as it fosters economic growth and improves resource efficiency.
Many of these sustainable architecture projects use solar power to generate electricity. The Philippine sun is abundant, so it is easy to integrate solar panels into building designs. These eco-friendly options help reduce carbon emissions and provide a safe, healthy environment for occupants.
Several green buildings have received LEED and BERDE certifications. One such example is the Arthaland Century Pacific Tower (ACPT), which is a net zero development that produces no greenhouse gas emissions. It uses a variety of sustainability measures, including a desiccant wheel air cooling system and repurposes rainwater for landscaping and toilet flushing.
Green spaces
Many green buildings in the Philippines are designed to incorporate a variety of green spaces, such as rooftop gardens and beautifully-landscaped courtyards. These can improve indoor air quality, reduce noise pollution, and provide a place for people to relax and reconnect with nature.
Sustainability is also reflected in the choice of materials used in building design. Architects are increasingly using recycled and upcycled materials, which can be less expensive and more durable than traditional materials. In addition, they are incorporating sustainable water management systems, such as rainwater harvesting and wastewater recycling.
In addition, green building features help to save energy by reducing the use of fossil fuels. A good example is the Shell Shared Services Office, which uses a combination of wind and solar power to generate electricity. The building also has low-emissivity glass, which helps to minimize heat gain and maximize natural daylight.
BERDE-certified buildings
BERDE is the Philippines’ national voluntary green building rating system. It is recognised by various government agencies, and it has become a significant tool in developing policies for sustainability within the building sector. Besides allowing the project owner to demonstrate its leadership in sustainable design, BERDE certification instills trust and confidence among stakeholders and end users.
The Philippine property industry has a growing interest in sustainable buildings, and this trend is continuing to rise. As a result, many large property developers are now looking into the feasibility of incorporating green principles in their projects.
Some companies are also leveraging on solar energy to reduce their carbon footprint and save energy costs. Moreover, they are using recycled and low-carbon materials such as ECOPlanet cement in their buildings.
PGBI
With green construction gaining popularity in the Philippines, developers are increasingly opting to build green buildings. Several buildings have received LEED and BERDE certification, including the Arthaland Century Pacific Tower in Bonifacio Global City. These buildings feature efficient systems for saving energy and water, and reducing waste.
In addition, sustainable architecture also prioritizes indoor air quality. This includes using low VOC paints and finishes that emit fewer harmful chemicals. It also involves choosing materials with a high recycled content.
One example of a sustainable building is the Net Lima office in Manila, which uses a green facade and curtain wall system to minimize its air conditioning usage. This allows natural light to illuminate the interior and reduces energy costs. The building also uses low-e glass to reduce solar heat gain.