As our world becomes increasingly conscious of the environmental impact of our daily lives, the green building market is also evolving to meet new demands. In the past, green buildings were marketed as being eco-friendly through the use of green roofs and facades. However, this trend is now becoming the past. As consumers become more aware of the concept of greenwashing, they are seeking genuine solutions that provide ecological, economic, and social benefits.
One of the new trends in green buildings is the implementation of Nature-Based Solutions (NBS) into the operation and function of buildings. This approach focuses on creating buildings that are engineered to naturally heat and cool themselves, harvest and produce clean drinking water, use natural ventilation systems, and recycle water. These features are designed to work with, rather than against, the environment, leading to buildings that are more autonomous, cost-effective, and socially responsible.
For example, natural ventilation systems that operate without relying on any mechanical or technical components are becoming increasingly popular. Many projects have replicated design solutions from ancient civilizations to achieve this. By using natural ventilation systems, buildings can reduce their energy consumption while also improving air quality for occupants.
Another trend is water recycling systems. For a long time, water recycling has been challenging in cities, but with the evolution of hydroponic vertical gardens, it is now possible to reuse 100% of the wastewater produced by buildings to produce food and help restore ecosystems. Implementing food production systems with recycled water is also becoming increasingly popular in the green building market.
In addition, buildings designed to naturally heat and cool themselves are becoming more prevalent. Many projects have proven that buildings can be heated and cooled naturally with zero or minimal energy consumption. This approach not only reduces energy consumption but also reduces the utility bills for occupants significantly.
Finally, designing buildings to harvest, filter, and produce clean drinking water is also becoming a very popular trend within the green building market. This approach ensures that buildings have a reliable source of clean drinking water, while also reducing water consumption and waste.
As the green building market continues to evolve, it is becoming clear that consumers are seeking more than just a green roof or facade. The future trends in the green building market will be based on responsible design that prioritizes ecological, economic, and social benefits. Through the implementation of Nature-Based Solutions, we can make buildings have an ecological role in their ecosystems, leading to a more sustainable future for all.