The most recent COP26 saw an entire day dedicated – for the first time – to the global built environment, building management and the way that this has an impact on sustainability goals. Buildings are responsible for 40% of global energy consumption and account for around a third of greenhouse gas emissions. So, the battle against climate change isn’t going to be won unless the built environment is taken into account. Smart buildings are going to be one of humanity’s most important resources when it comes to achieving carbon neutrality.
Change is needed now
Construction is an industry that doesn’t stop – global building floorspace is forecast to double by 2060, according to the World Economic Forum. However, only 3% of the investment that is being made in getting these new buildings up counts as sustainable. Decarbonisation to achieve climate goals is going to require a rethink of the way that we approach the built environment – and smart buildings are right at the top of that list.
What is a smart building?
It’s construction that essentially integrates green technology in order to support net-zero goals and reduce energy usage and emissions, while creating more comfortable environments for humans to operate in. Smart buildings have a huge role to play when it comes to achieving the most imminent carbon neutral targets but can also be vital with respect to futureproofing. Most smart buildings are constructed around the idea that a more efficient use of power not only reduces emissions and the volume of power required but will also ultimately save money. Given that the combination of lighting, heating and air conditioning can account for up to 50% of energy usage in the average commercial building, it’s no surprise that smart buildings can make a big difference.
Key aspects of smart buildings
- A smart building integrates that latest technology to provide a better overall perspective on how the building is functioning. This data can be used to improve performance across established metrics, such as water use or energy management.
- The use of cloud technology means that all the systems in the building can be effortlessly integrated, working in combination, as opposed to in isolation from one another.
- The use of smart digital technology can make aging stock more usable, as well as more carbon efficient. For example, smart sensors can make automatic adjustments to heat and light for comfort. This technology can help older buildings to achieve ‘active efficiency’ (optimisation of energy via integrating traditional energy efficiency measures and digital technologies).
- Smart buildings can flexibly respond, both to occupants and conditions. For example, as well as creating better workspaces and reducing building emissions, the use of digital technology in this way can automate demand response so that it takes into account fluctuations in renewable power generation.
Smart buildings provide not only hope for a much greener and more sustainable future but the opportunity to innovate building design for the benefit of us all in the here and now too. Find out more about the sectors in which we operate.
