Environmental Issues In recent years, the term sustainability has become a major topic of discussion among architects, builders, developers and the general public

Environmental Issues In recent years, the term sustainability has become a major topic of discussion among architects, builders, developers and the general public. But just what is sustainability; how can it be described? One of the most succinct definitions of sustainability that I have found comes from Edward Allen in his book “How Buildings Work” (Oxford University Press, 2005.):

Sustainability – “meeting the needs of the current generation without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their needs.”

According to the Worldwatch Institute, each year

Buildings consume:

• 40% of the energy utilized in the world.

Release into the atmosphere:

• 33% of the carbon dioxide.
• 40% of the chemicals that cause acid rain.
• 50% of the fluorocarbons that destroy the protective ozone layer.

U.S. Buildings consume :

• 17% of our fresh water supply.
• 25% of our harvested wood.
• 40% of our landfill materials come from construction projects.

If you believe that global warming is a real threat to our planet, list 5 activities that you as a student can engage in to promote energy conservation and a more sustainable future.