The basic principles of sustainable architecture

Abstract

Contemporary architecture works according to a linear model, meaning that it takes in fresh air, energy generated from fossil fuels, drinking water, various building and other materials necessary for life and having squandered them inefficiently, it releases stale-air, smoke, fumes, sewage, noise and refuse that will chemically pollute the environment. In 1994 at the CIB conference held in Tampa, Florida, C. Kibert clearly voiced what needs to be done. Accordingly sustainable architecture is: creating and responsibly sustaining a healthy built environment, responding to the ecological needs and making optimal use of energy without over-exploitation of natural resources. This means that the burden on nature must be reduced with the help of sensible compromise, legal-financial regulation, technologically clean building materials and products and at least a partial abnegation of consumer mentality.