Green Architecture: Key to cope in times of crisis

In times of financial crisis and soaring prices of construction materials, the best way to cope would be to practice green architecture, this according to Architect Joven Ignacio, an advocate of the green architecture movement (GAM) from the United Architects of the Philippines.

Green architecture is the integration of environmentally sensitive designs with eco-friendly materials.

He said that contrary to what other people believe, green architecture is actually energy efficient and can save more on operation cost because it lasts longer as it is integrated with the natural environment.

“Being sustainable doesn’t mean you have to spend a lot. It is actually the practice of careful use and selection of construction materials that can counter the industry’s high operating cost,” he said.

Ignacio explained that green architecture movement (GAM) is an international endeavor that aims to impart environmental awareness to practitioners and consumers of the construction industry.

GAM involves environmentally sensitive construction design that is in harmony with natural features of a particular project site.

Ignacio said that by opting to use green and sustainable materials that can be easily replenished, players can already practice green architecture.

“It’s a process of adopting energy efficient means. It requires a change of systems and the use of materials that are ecological, recyclable and derived from sustainable sources so there is lesser wastage and lower consumption cost,” he said.

He pointed out that for instance, instead of using hard wood which is slowly diminishing, contractors might as well use sustainable wood that is less costly and could be easily replenished.

In modular forms, composite boarding which is composed of recycled materials could be used as an alternative for plywood as well. 

Ignacio shared that there are several local manufacturers of green materials so there is no need to look at importation so much.

“Green and sustainable materials are in demand but most consumers do not know how to use it. There are already several local-based manufacturers but they need help so we have to intensify the demand for green construction materials so that we can also contribute to the local economy,” he said.

He also urged players from the construction industry to do their part in spreading environmental awareness in their field and practice.

“Clients should demand to their builders and developers to integrate green architecture in their projects and these practitioners should also explain the sustainable concept properly to their clients. Everyone has a responsibility to the environment and through green architecture; we can achieve sustainability of the construction industry,” said Ignacio.

However, one challenge of GAM is the lack of government initiative as the effort is still private sector driven.

Ignacio said that the government should give incentive or reward to clients, consumers, manufacturers and industry players who practices green architecture same way as this initiative is given privileges in other countries in the form of tax rebates.