Along with food and clothing, shelter is one of the most immediate basic human needs. Amidst planetary challenges such as climate change, biodiversity loss and pollution, the world today also faces a double whammy of population growth – projected to reach 8.6 billion in 2030 and 9.8 billion by 2050 – and surging demand for housing and commercial properties.
Housing is one of the most basic needs of human beings, but the way we have been building our homes has been anything but sustainable. The construction and operation of buildings account for a significant portion of global energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. As the world continues to face the effects of climate change, it is becoming increasingly important to develop sustainable housing solutions that can reduce the impact of human activities on the environment.
Sustainable housing solutions are those that are designed, constructed, and operated to minimize their impact on the environment while providing a comfortable and healthy living space for residents. These solutions aim to reduce energy and water consumption, decrease waste generation, and use environmentally friendly materials.
“Sharjah Sustainable City is one such initiative, which is designed to reduce carbon emissions by using renewable energy sources, promoting green mobility, repurposing waste and using sustainable construction materials. Besides utilizing renewable energy sources, the city is equipped with a biogas plant to treat organic waste (food waste, green waste, and sludge) that will convert waste problems into a resource (electricity and/or thermal energy),” says Yousif Ahmed Al-Mutawa, Chief Executive Officer of Sharjah Sustainable City.
One of the key areas that need to be rethought in terms of sustainable housing is construction materials. Traditional construction materials such as concrete and steel have a significant impact on the environment. The production of these materials requires large amounts of energy and emits greenhouse gases, and they often end up in landfills at the end of their useful life. Sustainable housing solutions should focus on using renewable and recycled materials such as wood, bamboo, and recycled steel and plastic.
The use of sustainable materials in construction can also help to reduce the carbon footprint of buildings. For example, wood has a much lower carbon footprint compared to concrete or steel, and it can sequester carbon throughout its life cycle. Additionally, bamboo is a fast-growing and renewable material that can be used for various applications in building construction.
Another aspect that needs to be addressed when it comes to sustainable housing is the need for more robust regulations. Governments need to implement stricter policies that promote sustainable construction practices and incentivize the use of sustainable materials. Building codes and regulations should require the use of sustainable materials and techniques, and provide incentives for developers who prioritize sustainable design.
In addition to regulations, governments can also provide financial incentives to encourage the adoption of sustainable housing solutions. Tax credits, grants, and other financial incentives can make it easier and more cost-effective for developers to build sustainable homes.
Overall, sustainable housing solutions are crucial for a better tomorrow. They offer numerous benefits such as reduced environmental impact, improved energy efficiency, and healthier living spaces. Policy rethinking needs to include construction materials and implementing more robust regulations to ensure that sustainable housing becomes the norm, rather than the exception. By taking a more sustainable approach to housing, we can create a more sustainable and resilient future for ourselves and future generations.
