Benefits and challenges of green buildings and infrastructure

Benefits of green buildings

Environmental impact reduction: Green buildings are designed to minimize energy and water consumption, significantly reducing their carbon footprint and mitigating environmental degradation.
Enhanced health and well-being of occupants: Improved indoor air quality, natural light and green spaces associated with green buildings can positively impact occupants’ health and well-being.
Yields favourable Return on Investment (ROI): Although the initial investment in green buildings may be higher than conventional buildings, the long-term savings in energy, water, and maintenance costs lead to a favourable ROI. The reduced operating costs, along with potential incentives and rebates for sustainable building practices, improve the financial viability of green buildings.
Improved productivity and attendance of occupants: Green buildings enhance indoor environmental quality which contributes to increased productivity and attendance. Studies have shown that occupants experience fewer health issues, resulting in lower absenteeism. The overall improved comfort and well-being also boost productivity, fostering a more effective and motivated workforce.

Environmental benefits: Green infrastructure reduces the urban heat island effect, improves air and water quality, and enhances biodiversity by providing habitats for wildlife.
Stormwater management: Green infrastructure, specifically LID, effectively manages stormwater by reducing runoff, improving water quality and recharging groundwater supplies.
Climate resilience: Green infrastructure enhances resilience to climate change impacts, such as extreme weather events, by providing natural buffers and mitigating flooding.
Health and well-being: Green infrastructure promotes public health by improving air quality, providing recreational spaces, and reducing noise pollution. Access to green spaces has also been shown to reduces stress, anxiety and depression.
Economic benefits: Green infrastructure can increase property values, create green jobs and reduce infrastructure costs over time through lower maintenance and operational expenses.
Biodiversity and wildlife habitat: Green infrastructure supports diverse ecosystems and provides refuge for plants and animals.
Community engagement: Green infrastructure (such as parks and gardens) fosters social interactions and community well-being.

Higher initial costs when compared to conventional buildings: Green buildings often involve higher upfront costs due to the use of advanced technologies and sustainable materials, additional design and certification fees, the need for skilled labor and investment in research and development.
Complex design and construction: The design and construction of green buildings are more complex, requiring an integrated design approach with close collaboration among various stakeholders, adherence to stringent environmental regulations, innovative construction methods, ongoing performance monitoring and tailored solutions for specific site conditions.
Lack of awareness and resistance to change: Many people are unaware of the benefits of green buildings, leading to slow adoption. Traditional construction practices and mindsets can also hinder green building adoption.
Complexity: Integrating various sustainable elements requires expertise and coordination.

High initial costs: Green infrastructure projects often require significant upfront investment for materials, technology and specialized labour.
Maintenance requirements: Green infrastructure can require more maintenance than traditional infrastructure, especially for living components like green roofs and rain gardens.
Technical complexity: Implementing green infrastructure can be complex, requiring specialized knowledge and skills that may not be widely available.
Regulatory and policy barriers: Existing regulations and policies may not support or may even hinder the implementation of green infrastructure projects.
Space and design constraints: Integrating green infrastructure into urban areas can be challenging due to space limitations and existing built environments.
Public perception and acceptance: There may be resistance from the public or stakeholders who are unfamiliar with the benefits or who perceive green infrastructure as risky or unnecessary.