Green Architecture and Sustainable Development: Applications & Perspectives Richard N. LACROIX *, and Eleni STAMATIOU** * IT Consultant, Researcher **Architect-Dr. Town Planner, Regional Planner, * E. Stamatiou, 144 Amfitheas Ave, Athens 17562, Greece; e-mail: rlacroix@otenet.gr Abstract: - In this paper we examine the concept of “Green Architecture” or “Green Building”. We analyze the relative terms, the functionality and efficiency of their application through references to international practices (USA, Europe, Asia) and techniques of famous green designers and builders. Key-Words: - Green Architecture, Sustainable Development, Renewable Resources, Green Building 1 Introduction Sustainability in architecture is related to the concept of "green architecture" or “green building”. The two terms, however are often used interchangeably to relate to any building designed with environmental goals in mind, often regardless of how they actually function in regard to such goals [1]. Sustainable architecture and green architecture for that matter is framed by the larger discussion of sustainability and the pressing economic and political issues of our world [2]. In the broad context, green architecture, seeks to minimize the negative environmental impact of buildings by enhancing efficiency and moderation in the use of materials, energy, and development space [3]. 2 Green Architecture The focus of green architecture is for the project to work in harmony with the natural features and resources surrounding the site, and to use materials that are sustainably grown or recycled rather than new materials from non-renewable resources. Building materials may be sought within a 500-mile radius of the building site to minimize the use of fuel for transportation. The building itself may be oriented a particular direction to take advantage of naturally occurring features such as wind direction and angle of the sun. When possible, building materials may be gleaned from the site itself; for example, if a new structure is being constructed in a wooded area, wood from the trees which were cut to make room for the building would be re-used as part of the building itself. Taking advantage of available natural light reduces dependence on artificial (energy-using) light sources. Well-insulated windows, doors, and walls help reduce energy loss, thereby reducing energy usage. To further address energy loss hot water heat recycling is used to reduce energy usage for domestic water heating. Low-impact building materials are used wherever feasible: for example, insulation may be made from low VOC (volatile organic compound)-emitting materials such as recycled denim, rather than the fiberglass insulation which is dangerous to breathe. To discourage insect damage, the insulation may be treated with boric acid. Organic or milk-based paints may be used. Architectural salvage and reclaimed materials are used when appropriate as well. When older buildings are demolished, frequently any good wood is reclaimed, renewed, and sold as flooring. Many other parts are reused as well, such as doors, windows, mantels, and hardware, thus reducing the consumption of new goods. When new materials are employed, green designers look for materials that are rapidly replenished, such as bamboo, which can be harvested for commercial use after only 6 years of growth, or cork oak, in which only the outer bark is removed for use, thus preserving the tree. Good green architecture also reduces waste, of both energy and material. During construction phase, the goal is to reduce the amount of material going to landfills. Well designed buildings also help reduce the amount of waste generated by the occupants as well, by providing onsite solutions such as compost bins to reduce matter going to landfills. To reduce the impact on wells or water treatments plants, several options exist. "Grey water", wastewater from sources such as dishwashing or washing machines, can be used to flush toilets, water lawns, and wash cars. Rainwater collectors are used for similar purposes, and some homes use Proc. of the 3rd IASME/WSEAS Int. Conf. on Energy, Environment, Ecosystems and Sustainable Development, Agios Nikolaos, Greece, July 24-26, 2007 603