Optimization of Energy in Sustainable Architecture and Green Roofs in Construction: A Review of Challenges and Advantages

Abstract

Sustainability has been one of architecture's most significant trends over the last twenty years. e environmental consciousness of professionals has put sustainability at the heart of the architectural profession and has contributed to adopting and implementing sustainable designs on the scale of urban landscapes. A green roof or living roof, which is a sustainable solution in architecture, is a roof on the surface of which plants are grown. e roof is covered by plants, covering the waterproof layer beneath the vegetation. However, various types of plants can be used in this scheme. Understanding the influencing factors in choosing the right plant species and the impact that utilizing green roofs has on the overall energy consumption of the building can tremendously help scientists and clarify the possible future research topics in this field. Hence, this article investigates energy optimization in the construction process of a green roof in sustainable architecture and its advantages and challenges. e results of this study show that budget limitations, managerial and organizational policies, legal issues, technical and scientific infrastructure, and cultural and geographical aspects are all affecting the widespread use of green roofs currently and need to be considered in future studies.

Quantifying the impacts of green roof design factors on microclimate regulation: A case study in Washington, D.C.

“…This phenomenon violates conventional theories that shrubs have better capabilities in these aspects due to the larger biomass [53,54,55]. Some potential explanations are: 1) Due to the different plant growing characteristics, ground cover may be more compact, creating a denser layer of vegetation that is more effective at reducing wind speed and relative humidity [56]. Ground covers have smaller, more numerous leaves than shrubs, which leads to more transpiration and affects relative humidity [57].…”

Pixels and columns: tracing the symbiotic evolution of digital graphics and contemporary architecture

“…Buildings consume about 40% of the world's energy, and elevators account for 2%-10% of a building's energy consumption. During peak usage hours, elevators may utilize up to 40% of the building's energy [21][22]. Glen Pederick, 2014, explains that everyday there are more than 7 billion elevator journeys taken in buildings all over the world; and as such, energysaving elevators will reduce energy consumption significantly [23].…”

Hygrothermal Performance of simple intensive Green Roofs with Different Irrigation Schemes

“…For these roof variants, the fire hazard also plays a role in summer or during longer dry phases, as both the dry substrate and withered plantings represent a considerable fire load. [6][7][8][9][10]…”