The Green Cooling Factor: Eco-Innovative Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning Solutions in Building Design

Abstract

This research investigates the compatibility of conventional air conditioning with the principles of green building, highlighting the need for systems that enhance indoor comfort while aligning with environmental sustainability. Though proficient in regulating indoor temperatures, conventional cooling systems encounter several issues when incorporated into green buildings. These include energy waste, high running costs, and misalignment with eco-friendly practices, which may also lead to detrimental environmental effects and potentially reduce occupant comfort, particularly in retrofit situations. Given the emphasis on sustainability and energy conservation in green buildings, there is a pressing demand for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) solutions that support these goals. This study emphasises the critical need to reconsider traditional HVAC strategies in the face of green building advances. It advocates for the adoption of innovative HVAC technologies designed for eco-efficiency and enhanced comfort. These technologies should integrate seamlessly with sustainable construction, use greener refrigerants, and uphold environmental integrity, driving progress towards a sustainable and occupant-friendly built environment.

All-in-One Cast-Molded Hydrophobic Silicon Dioxide-Phase Change Microcapsule/Gelatin-Hydroxyethyl Cellulose Composite Aerogel for Building Cooling

“…1,2 Typically, the maintenance of thermal comfort in buildings is based on active energy-consuming equipment such as heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC). 3,4 According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), 5 heating and cooling account for about half of the world's energy consumption, and most of this energy comes from inefficient use of fossil fuels or biomass, which is responsible for more than 40% of global carbon emissions from energy. 6,7 With global climate change and rising energy costs, energy consumption in this sector will continue to increase.…”

“…The thermal comfort of buildings has a significant impact on human health, work efficiency, and quality of life. , Typically, the maintenance of thermal comfort in buildings is based on active energy-consuming equipment such as heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC). , According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), heating and cooling account for about half of the world’s energy consumption, and most of this energy comes from inefficient use of fossil fuels or biomass, which is responsible for more than 40% of global carbon emissions from energy. , With global climate change and rising energy costs, energy consumption in this sector will continue to increase. This is not only a serious economic burden but also leads to serious environmental problems, including global warming, − air pollution, − and acid rain. − Passive daytime radiative cooling (PDRC) has great potential as a green, nonelectric cooling technology to address today’s building cooling challenges. − …”