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UNIT 5: THE SUSTAINABLE SITING, DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION OF TOURISM FACILITIES
The Benefits of Sustainable Design
• FACILITATES ENVIRONMENT MANAGEMENT
Sustainable design greatly facilitates the implementation of EMS.
Some of the greatest challenges for EMS are finding ways to reduce
resource use and waste output in buildings that offer very little scope
for low and medium cost improvements. But a building constructed to
maximise day lighting, lower heat loss or gain, use renewable energy,
provide plumbing for the reuse of grey water, and lower watering needs
through thoughtful landscaping, makes the implementation of EMS
much easier.
• LOWER ENERGY USE
As discussed in Unit 4, repair and retrofit options can reduce energy
consumption by 30-50% in most buildings. This can be increased to
80% if coupled with sustainable design features.
• PEOPLE PREFER ‘GREEN’
There is an increasing demand for airy, comfortable homes and offices
in neighbourhoods with open spaces, parks, trees and greenery.
Sustainable design demonstration projects show that people are
willing to pay a premium for ‘green’ homes and buildings.
• IMPROVES PRODUCTIVITY AND ENHANCES CORPORATE IMAGE
Improving employee productivity is a strong incentive for ‘green’
offices. As salaries account for the highest proportion of operating
costs, the business benefits of increased productivity can make
a substantial contribution towards offsetting payback periods for
building improvements. ‘Green’ buildings can also improve corporate
image.
Sustainable design results in durable, attractive buildings, reduced operating
and maintenance costs, improved comfort and convenience and low environment
impact.
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