Energy and Water

1.Why is building energy and water use monitoring important?

Growing pressure on water resources from population and economic growth, climate change, pollution, etc. have major impacts on our social, economic, and environmental well-being. Many of our aquifers are being over-pumped which in turn cause widespread declines in groundwater levels. Major rivers no longer reach the sea. Half of the world’s wetlands have been lost due to over development. Water is increasingly degrading in quality, threatening the health of humans and ecosystems and increasing the work and cost of water treatment. Millions around the globe still lack access to clean water and the number of deaths due to dehydration increase exponentially. These problems stem from an inefficient use of water, as a result of poor management systems, improper economic incentives, under investment, failure to apply more effective technologies. It is imperative that we change the way we value and manage our water.

2. The AIA Guide to Integrating Energy Modeling in the Design process states that energy is a design problem. Do you agree or disagree with this statement? Why?

I agree that energy is a design problem but not solely a design problem. Advancements in energy sustainability requires the efforts of multiple entities. However, as an aspiring architect, I do believe it is our responsibility as designers to make the necessary changes for the survival of our future generations. A building's design greatly effects energy consumption so thoughtful design must be implemented into future projects, such as sustainable materials, solar energy, and recycling.

3. Is water a design problem? Why?

Yes. As Americans, we are becoming increasingly aware of water consumption and conservation, and designers are taking steps to reduce water consumption. Low flow faucet aerators, water heaters without tanks, and Energy Star rated washers help conserve water. Rainwater on the property can be collected and re-purposed for water usage. Before homes were connected to the city municipal systems, households often collected run-off in cisterns.  Attained rainwater can be used to fill water features, irrigate gardens and maintain landscapes. It becomes our problem, if we very well hold solutions to them.

https://pacinst.org/issues/sustainable-water-management-local-to-global/

https://blog.lotnetwork.com/10-top-green-home-building-ideas/

https://www.google.com/search?q=water+energy+solutions&rlz=1C1CHBF_enUS781US781&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&v