Evaluating building materials for environmental sustainability is a complex prospect. How do governmental agencies and the design industry actually measure sustainable initiatives and environmental impacts?
This book breaks down the technical vocabulary and principles that define environmentally sustainable choices across interior and exterior architectural products to help the reader understand:
- Material ingredient selection
- Energy and water use
- Emissions, including greenhouse gases
- Human health and toxicity
- Social accountability assessment
This guide explains the structure of green certifications, standards and ecolabels, life cycle assessment, environmental regulations, and more. It presents a historic timeline for context and a snapshot of current trends and future objectives. It is a comprehensive reference for interior designers, architects, building owners, contractors, and students enrolled in interior design and architecture.
Chapter 1. Introduction.- Chapter 2. Describing Building Materials & Products.- Chapter 3. Life Cycle Thinking.- Chapter 4. Resource Use.- Chapter 5. Energy Use.- Chapter 6. Water Use.- Chapter 7. Emissions.- Chapter 8. Toxicity and Human Health.- Chapter 9. Social Accountability.- Chapter 10. Laws and Regulation; Standards, Certifications and Ecolabels.- Chapter 11. Transparency.- Chapter 12. Conclusion.
Hannah Rae Roth was a Lecturer in Architecture and Environmental Studies at Washington University in St. Louis until mid-2020. She provides a deep focus on the environmental impact of building materials and architectural finishes, the regional nature of materials, and their vernacular use. She is an active member of the Missoul3$