Sustainability

Question 1

Benefit of future-proofing the design of a building

Answer 1

Allows for future technologies to be added, meaning there will be reduced need to replace existing systems.

Question 2

Meeting requirements of equality act

Answer 2

Corridors must be designed to a minimum width specified by the legislation,

allowing wheelchair uses to enter and access the building,

reducing the need for further assistance

Question 3

Evaluating different sustainable materials

Answer 3

• Timber products - have low embodied energy and is usually sourced from renewable resources
• Roofing materials - Use of reclaimed slate good for high rainfall and variation in temperature
• Insulation materials - Cellulose is a renewable and environmentally friendly product that is sprayed on the internal structure
• Recycled demolition materials - Bricks from previous building can be crushed and used as aggregates for foundations

Question 4

Factors that contribute to embodied energy

Answer 4

The amount of energy used during transportation of the material.

This is dependent on distance travelled.

Question 5

Benefits of combined heat and power systems

Answer 5

• Increased energy efficiency
• Reduced energy costs
• De-creased carbon emissions

Question 6

Negatives of combined heat and power systems

Answer 6

• High initial costs
• Requires space
• Maintenance requirements

Question 7

What is a combined heat and power system ?

Answer 7

System that generates heat and electricity from a single source such as fuel.

Question 8

Benefits of using a air source heat pump

Answer 8

• Reduced carbon emissions
• Versatility between heating and cooling as it can switch between the two

Question 9

Negatives of air source heat pumps

Answer 9

• Not very aesthetically pleasing
• Can be hard to install in areas like apartment blocks