THE NEED FOR BETTER BUILDINGS

How the buildings we live in add to the threat from global warming

Jennie Jarvie, December 9, 2015 (LA Times)

“…From urban high-rises to squat suburban malls, buildings are responsible for about 40% of global energy use and 30% of greenhouse gas emissions…[and] this amount could be significantly reduced by introducing relatively simple new practices and technologies…Most of the average building's emissions come from everyday needs: to warm and cool our environment, provide light, cook food [and surf] the Internet…To achieve the goal of preventing global temperatures from rising more than 2 degrees Celsius — 3.6 degrees Fahrenheit — experts say improving buildings' energy efficiency is crucial…[There is] much potential for long-term, cost-effective cuts in greenhouse gas emissions: Energy consumption in new and old buildings could be reduced by an estimated 30% to 80% by harnessing existing technologies…[if consumers change] their habits…In developed nations, the priority is retrofitting old buildings and making them more efficient: installing double-pane windows, insulating walls and roofs, upgrading to LED lighting…In developing nations, the focus centers more on utilizing modern technology to design sophisticated new structures that introduce natural light and ventilation, as well as installing [rooftop solar panels and geothermal technology]…” click here for more

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