The Philippines is actively embracing sustainable architecture as a means to address environmental challenges, promote climate resilience, and create a greener and more sustainable future.

Have you heard of sustainable architecture? It is also known as green or eco-friendly architecture. It is a design approach that prioritizes the integration of environmental, social, and economic considerations to create buildings and spaces that minimize their negative impact on the planet. 

In recent years, the adoption of sustainable architecture has gained significant momentum in the Philippines as the country recognizes the urgent need to address environmental challenges and promote sustainable development. 

The growing awareness of climate change, coupled with the rising cost of energy and the desire for healthier living environments, has prompted architects, and developers in the country to embrace sustainable architectural practices.

Green Building Certification Systems for Sustainable Architecture

As the Philippines works to tackle climate change and environmental issues, the construction industry is stepping up to create a more sustainable future. 

One way this is being achieved is through the implementation of green building certification systems. These systems provide guidelines and standards for assessing buildings that prioritize energy efficiency and resource conservation.

LEED: A Worldwide Standard in Sustainable Architecture

The Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) is a widely recognized certification system developed by the United States Green Building Council (USGBC). In the Philippines, LEED certification serves as a benchmark for sustainable construction practices. 

One example of a LEED-certified building in the Philippines is Arya Residences in Taguig City. The building incorporated energy-efficient features, and water efficiency measures. Likewise, it utilized sustainable materials, waste management strategies, indoor environmental quality considerations, and sustainable site development practices.

BERDE: A Locally-Tailored System for Philippine Sustainable Architecture

The Building for Ecologically Responsive Design Excellence (BERDE) was specifically developed by the Philippine Green Building Council (PhilGBC) to suit the local context. BERDE certification takes into account the unique environmental challenges and cultural considerations of the Philippines. 

One example of a BERDE-certified building in the Philippines is the De La Salle University-Manila Henry Sy Jr. Hall. The structure has an energy-efficient design, and employed water conservation measures.

There are indoor environmental quality enhancements, and waste management strategies. It has also utilized the use of sustainable materials and integrated renewable energy systems in urban design.

PGBI: Promoting Sustainable Building Practices in Sustainable Architecture

The Philippine Green Building Initiative (PGBI) is a certification system that is all about promoting sustainable building practices in the Philippines. PGBI places a strong emphasis on integrating sustainable design principles into architectural planning and construction. 

One example of a PGBI-certified building in the Philippines is the Hyundai Logistics Center in Calamba, Laguna. The building has an energy-efficient design with the integration of renewable energy systems. It employed water conservation measures and used sustainable and locally sourced materials. Additionally, it incorporated green spaces and landscaping to enhance biodiversity.

Sustainable Design Principles and Strategies

Energy Efficiency for Sustainable Architecture

With the rising cost of energy, energy efficiency is a major focus of sustainable architecture in the Philippines. Architects are incorporating smart strategies like optimizing natural lighting, ventilation, and shading to minimize the need for artificial lighting and air conditioning. Energy-efficient systems and technologies, like LED lighting, and smart controls, are also making their way into building designs and in sustainable architecture.

Water Conservation

Water conservation is another important principle of sustainable architecture in the Philippines. Architects are coming up with ways to save water, like using low-flow fixtures, installing rainwater harvesting systems, and recycling greywater. 

Waste Reduction and Recycling

Sustainable architecture in the Philippines also focuses on waste reduction and recycling. Architects are designing buildings with adaptability in mind, so they can evolve and meet changing needs over time.

This is a great feature for sustainable architecture in the Philippines, as not a lot of people are aware that water can be recycled in the first place.

Green Spaces

Architects in the Philippines are integrating green spaces into their designs in a variety of ways, including rooftop gardens, vertical green walls, and beautifully-landscaped courtyards. These sustainable architecture spaces can contribute to cleaner air, lessen noise pollution, and give people a place to unwind and connect with nature.

Sustainable Materials and Technologies for Sustainable Architecture

A key aspect of the Philippines’ movement toward sustainability is the incorporation of sustainable materials and technologies in building design and construction. 

Recycled and Upcycled Materials

Architects and developers in the Philippines are increasingly incorporating recycled and upcycled materials into their designs. These materials, such as reclaimed wood, salvaged bricks, and repurposed metal, have a number of benefits. As less virgin materials are used, they are environmentally favorable. They are frequently more resilient and environmentally friendly than conventional materials.

Low VOC Paints and Finishes

Indoor air quality is a top priority in sustainable architecture. Low VOC (volatile organic compounds) paints and finishes are gaining popularity in the Philippines as they emit fewer harmful chemicals. These eco-friendly alternatives minimize health risks for occupants and contribute to a healthier living environment. 

Solar Panels

The Philippines has abundant sunlight, making it an ideal place for solar power. Architects are increasingly integrating solar panels into building designs to harness this renewable energy source. From residential homes to commercial buildings, solar power is being utilized to generate electricity and reduce reliance on traditional energy sources for sustainable architecture.

Why the Philippines Should Shift to Sustainable Architecture

In the case of the Philippines, it is a wise decision to shift to sustainable architecture. It is crucial for climate change resilience, environmental preservation, energy efficiency, and water management. By embracing sustainable design principles and practices, the country can address the challenges posed by climate change.

To show our support for sustainability, BillionBricks has started its net-zero homes project in the Philippines this year in partnership with ENGIE Factory.

If you want to learn more about BillionBricks and our net zero homes, visit https://billionbricks.org/contact-us-ph.

If you’re interested in further exploration of green architecture, be sure to check out another article that provides additional insights. Read: Green Architecture: A Sustainable Solution to the Construction Sector’s Environmental Challenges

Sources

1. Lifegate. (2018). What is sustainable architecture: definition, concept and famous examples. Retrieved from https://www.lifegate.com/sustainable-architecture-definition-concept-projects-examples

2. US GBC. (n.d.). Benefits of LEED. Retrieved from https://www.usgbc.org/leed/benefits-leed

3. BERDE Online. (n.d.). About BERDE. Retrieved from https://berdeonline.org/#about-berde-what-is-berde

4. PGBI. (n.d.). About PGBI. Retrieved from https://www.greenbuilding.ph/about-pgbi

5. KMB. (2021). 6 Fundamental Principles of Sustainable Building Design. Retrieved from https://www.kmbdg.com/news/energy-engineering-company-sustainable-building-design/

6. Re-thinking the Future. (n.d.). 10 Sustainable Materials Every Architect Must Know. Retrieved from https://www.re-thinkingthefuture.com/rtf-fresh-perspectives/a1322-10-sustainable-materials-every-architect-must-know/

7. MEP. (2019). Top 12 sustainable construction technologies used in green construction. Retrieved from https://www.mepmiddleeast.com/business/71957-top-12-sustainable-construction-technologies-used-in-green-construction