Submerged Lands

Although there are now a number of alternatives to the traditional sources of energy (coal, gas and nuclear fuels), these new technologies do not currently provide sufficient generative capacity to meet the needs of developed and developing economies. Whilst the ability of new energy sources to meet demand will improve over time, our energy needs will primarily be satisfied by coal, gas and nuclear power for the foreseeable future. Coal and gas-fired power stations both produce substantial carbon emissions that contribute to global warming and produce other negative environmental impacts.  Nuclear power does not produce carbon emissions, but the need to dispose of nuclear waste and the on-going public concerns regarding the safety of nuclear power remain a concern. Past incidents, such as Chernobyl and Three Mile Island, mean that it is not a popular solution.

Given this background, developers and consumers need to focus on reducing energy consumption until such a time as sufficient clean and safe alternative energy is available to meet demand. Part of the solution is consumer education. We all need to learn to minimize the amount of energy we use through such simple measures as turning televisions and computers off when not in use rather than leaving them turned on, or by turning lights off when leaving a room. Such measures cost nothing, but if we all do them the energy savings will be considerable.

Because a significant proportion of electrical power is lost between the point of production and the consumer, on-site energy generation is one method of reducing consumption. Solar panels can meet the hot water needs of a property in a cost effective manner. Photovoltaic panels, which also make use of sunlight, can generate electricity to meet some or all of the needs of a property. The cost of these panels has now come down to a more affordable level allowing them to be used more widely.

Building designers can also take measures to reduce the energy demands of new buildings by using the principles of passive solar design. Design teams can use solar energy to regulate the temperature of a building, reducing the need to use carbon emission generating heating and cooling systems. Passive solar design requires careful consideration of the location of buildings; prevailing climatic conditions; the materials from which buildings are constructed; the type and size of their windows; and their ventilation systems. Energy use can also be reduced by incorporating much higher levels of insulation. However, the greater wall thicknesses that result can be problematic for developers as they reduce the amount of saleable floor-space.

Many governments provide capital grants to property developers and homeowners who adopt new technology. These grants are intended to increase demand for new technologies, which have the effect of bringing down prices, making products accessible to a wider market.

You Are Here Reducing Energy Usage of New Developments
Reducing Water Usage of New Developments
Encouraging Biodiversity on New Developments
Reducing Construction Waste
Becoming a Sustainable Business
ISO 14001 Accreditation