1. Rainfall falls on most parcels of property throughout the world. Describe one method that could be used to collect this natural resource.
One way to collect rainfall is to set up a nice garden-style landmark in your yard. The rain water collects at this point, and is filtered biologically through the dirt. From there, a paper filter is used, where finally the water is stored in a tank underground.
2. Describe an innovative construction method or technique that benefits the environment.
Using vernacular architecture, like using trees that were cut where the new house will be built, and using dirt form the the foundation to make clay for the shingles on the roof, are methods of innovative (and primitive) construction that can benefit the environment. This reduces the environmental detriments taht shipping provides.
3. During the construction cycle of the building, materials and components are delivered to the site. List a strategy that you will use to recycle the waste produced during the construction phase.
I would take the remnants of the previous structure that was on the site, and any excess materials used during the construction, and transport them to a materials recycling company. From their they could be recycled and re-used for further construction jobs.
4. Energy use is high in commercial buildings. What might a designer do to reduce energy consumption in a building?
Attempting to decrease surface area of a building is an effective way to limit the transfer the heat between the building and the environment. The elevators could use magnetic brakes, and computers could use a short-term hyper-hibernation method to conserve electricity. A waterwheel could be placed at the bottom of a gutter that leads from the roof, so when rain falls electricity could be produced.
5. Building sites offer natural resources that can be utilized for the life of the building. Describe a method to use a site’s natural resources in the construction of the structure.
If you were building at a place that is predominant in clay, then clay roof tiles could b eused. The drawback to this method is their brittleness, which could be a problem if hail or a tornado comes through.
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Conclusion
1. Describe an original green and sustainable idea that you have. Choose one that is not currently in use as far as you know.
Put hybridized electric brakes on elevators. Put a waterwheel at the bottom of skyscrapers with huge gutters from the roof that would power them during storms. Grow plants on rooftops, then harbor the sucrose to inject into high-energy drinks that are given to employees that run in giant hamster wheels that generate electricity. Utilize the magnetic fields of skycrapers by orbiting a ball around them in between a ring of magnetic force, creating electricity.
2. Describe an improvement that you believe could be made to the building where you live. Describe why it is an improvement.
The skyline, while cool, would be lower, as that is where all the heat goes in the winter. If the ceilings were lower, then it would feel warmer, and the house wouldn't have to be heated as much.
