![]() In implementing microclimate-level passive measures, it is important to consult the regional domain experts on the local plant species before selecting the landscaping strategy. Simultaneously, the microclimate requires frequent maintenance, such as watering plants, pruning trees, and cleaning ponds. Project teams can apply passive measures to the microclimate with moderate ease however, spatial limitations in dense urban communities can be challenging. Nevertheless, teams can use the thermal mass of the adjacent microclimatic elements (such as paving or shared walls) for radiant warmth during certain hours of the day. For cool climates, the microclimate can facilitate the incidence of solar radiation on the building envelope however, it is not as effective as in warm climates. For instance, buildings located in the warm climates of the northern hemisphere should plant voluminous trees along the south façade to reduce the incidence of the undesirable afternoon sun. The design and landscaping teams can further enhance the microclimate by observing the seasonal airflow and sun-path patterns and aligning the vegetation appropriately. They can include unpaved land with sufficient regional vegetation and bodies of water to retain moisture and facilitate shading. For warm climates, project teams can optimize the microclimate through appropriate landscaping. It is influenced by vegetation, soil properties, bodies of water, mutual shading due to adjacent buildings, and regional exposure to particle pollution. The conditions facilitated by the physical elements around a building comprise the microclimate. Save this picture! © Kotivalo, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons This article highlights 4 key envelope-level passive strategies to implement for decarbonizing building systems. Then, it uses energy-efficient active modes of heating, cooling, ventilation and lighting. Typically, a well-designed and well-operated building uses envelope-level passive measures to minimize the thermal loads first. On the other hand, passive measures help maintain indoor thermal comfort using the inherent physical and thermal properties of the building envelope and its surroundings These stakeholders can help reduce the carbon footprint of the building through strategic design decisions.Ĭonventionally, the active modes of heating, cooling, ventilation and lighting utilize energy-intensive electrical processes. The near-central role of buildings in the global climate and energy scenario makes it crucial for architects, engineers and building owners to take appropriate action. ![]() Nearly 40% of the energy produced in the U.S.
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