In today’s time, there is a need for sustainable and greener infrastructure. Hence almost every property developer in Singapore is aiming for sustainable/green buildings in the current and near future. Fighting climate change requires adapting to the latest innovation in developing more efficient and eco-friendly residences for decreasing the carbon footprint and greenhouse gas emissions.

The real estate industry is taking the challenge of building newer homes and infrastructure to cater for lesser energy consumption with minimal environmental impact in the long run. Nevertheless, these practices offer greater solutions, but it wouldn’t be possible without proper materials involved in building. Here are some of the ideal characteristics of green building materials:

Renewable

An ideal material for green buildings in Singapore should be renewable. A perfect ‘renewable’ material must be made from synthetic or natural resources that have the capacity to be regenerated for another use again and again. Thus it helps conserve more resources for consumption and materials. Not to mention, most non-renewable materials only add up more waste and generate pollution in return when discarded.

Energy Efficient

Energy efficiency is another characteristic of a green building material that most property developers use. Energy-efficient materials use lesser energy to perform a task, thus lessening pollution and reducing enormous energy demand. Infrastructure that utilises lesser energy lends itself to reducing emissions of harmful factors and increasing national resource security.

Non-Toxic 

Non-toxic materials are incapable of emitting irritants and other hazardous compounds that can pose detrimental health to humans. Some materials have VOC (volatile organic compounds), which serves as one of the most common toxic gases emitted from materials serving as an irritant. Thus in today’s real estate development and facilities management, using non-toxic materials is becoming a standard for many to adhere to.

Cost-Effective

Another primary variable for highly sustainable and eco-friendly materials must be cost-effective. Building materials have their own respective price. Some of the greenest building products can cost an arm and leg, which impacts the overall decision but does have a long-term impact on conserving budget, especially in operations. Cost-effective materials should also have a decent life cycle, which must account for the overall cost since maintenance would be part of the expense.

Durability

Materials should not need frequent repairs often, which helps preserve resources and lessen expenditure. Durable and robust materials are also low in maintenance. If you are looking for a sustainable building in Singapore, visit Keppel Land for more info.

David Simson

The author, Dr. David K Simson is a trained radiation oncologist specializing in advanced radiation techniques such as intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT), image-guided radiotherapy (IGRT), volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) / Rapid Arc, stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT), stereotactic radiotherapy (SRT), stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS). He is also experienced in interstitial, intracavitary, and intraluminal brachytherapy.