An Architect's Guide to Designing for Sustainability - Part Two
Environmental capital refers to all the resources of the Earth (Edwards, 2002). These resources include the atmosphere, freshwater and ground water, land, biodiversity, and capital employed by industries such construction. Environmental capital also includes negative values such as pollution, contamination, and desertification.
Figure 2: Site Conservation Strategy, Chesapeake Bay
The objective to be obtained is to ensure that the proposed project is sited, planned and constructed in a manner that supports the environment of the site and the adjoining areas. To do this, study the microclimate of the site and identify zones best suited for development based on temperature, humidity, wind, solar orientation, and solar access. Study the geology and hydrology of the site to identify soil characteristics, drainage capacity, and groundwater flow direction, as well as possible water contamination issues. Determine whether there are any strategic environmental assessments (SEAs), existing environmental impact assessments (EIAs) environmental impact statements (EISs), or other relevant environmental, noise, air and water quality studies available. Check with the local authorities if any reports were previously prepared for the site and/or the locational area. Identify and note what design and construction limitations are posed by the environmental qualities of the site and prepare strategies for possible and potential mitigation.
You may want to consider requiring that all tenderers submit their environmental credentials in order to pre-scrutinise potential contractors or to prepare a shortlist of appropriate tenderers. You may also consider making the submission of an environmental management plan (EMP) or, if contractors have one, their environmental management system (EMS), a condition of tender.
Once the contract is awarded, draw a plan in consultation with the contractor that addresses the relevant environmental conditions applicable to the locational area, the site, and the programmatic requirements of the project. This plan should cover:
· Keeping the construction site neat and tidy;
· Protecting the existing ecology, especially those portions of the site where no construction work is planned;
· Avoiding any on-site treatment that may adversely affect the health and safety of workers;
· Restricting any interference or disturbance to the neighbours (safe access, minimum noise, vibration, blasting, litter, dust, working hours, pollution to air, water and ground);
· The safe and appropriate storage of all materials;
· The separation of recyclable elements; and
· The safe and appropriate disposal of remaining elements, including waste.
Go to 18.1 Theme: Atmosphere
18.3 Theme: Freshwater and ground water
Back to 17 Social Capital