Low Energy and Low Impact Buildings

What Constitutes Low Energy and Low Impact

Low energy buildings are structures designed and built with the explicit aim of reducing the amount of energy required for their operation.
Low impact buildings aim to minimise their effects on the environment through the materials used, their construction processes, and their operational lifespan.

Low Energy Building Features

Insulation is key to preventing heat loss; materials such as mineral wool, cellulose and polyurethane foam are commonly used.
Air tightness prevents uncontrolled air leakage; this can be achieved using vapour barriers and careful sealing of all joins.
Energy efficient appliances reduce the amount of electricity consumed for daily operations like cooking, cleaning, heating or cooling.
Energy recovery ventilation systems extract stale air and recover its heat before expelling it outside.
Low-energy lighting, before LED lights were the most energy efficient, now OLED lights are considered the next step forward.

Low Impact Building Features

Sustainable materials like timber, bamboo, recycled steel or concrete are used to reduce the ecological footprint of the building.
Low carbon technologies, such as heat pumps and biomass boilers, can lower carbon emissions significantly.
Rainwater harvesting systems collect and store rainwater for reuse, minimising water usage and reducing pressure on local water sources.
Natural ventilation strategies, such as strategically placing windows and vents, can eliminate the need for mechanical cooling systems.
Green roofs and walls can provide insulation, manage water runoff, and contribute to local biodiversity.

Benefits of Low Energy and Low Impact Buildings

Reduction in energy consumption leads to lower energy bills, making these buildings more economical to run.
Mitigation of environmental impact is achieved through lower emissions during both construction and operation.
Improving occupant comfort by maintaining a stable and comfortable indoor temperature.
Enhancing local economies by creating jobs in sustainable construction and renewable energy sectors.

By integrating these features and principles, low energy and low impact buildings can provide a viable and sustainable alternative to traditional methods of construction.