The future in building design integrates environmental sustainability in its core objectives. According to the Australia Institute, the year 2024 has registered the most robust growth in the construction of energy-efficient green buildings. Such growth has been the result of the increased awareness of climate change, technological advancement and increased regulatory standards.
In the effort to combat climate change, Australian builders are also encouraged to ensure the construction of green buildings and low carbon emissions. )ne of the tools to assist with this is the BASIX Certificate.
Today, we will discuss some of the general trends that have emerged in sustainable building designs in 2024. We’ll also see how BASIX plays a key role to support these sustainable design trends for 2024 will influence the development of eco-friendly construction in the years to come.
Sustainable Design Trends For 2024
Increased Focus on Energy Efficiency in Residential Design
Energy efficiency is considered to be one of the most important aspects of sustainable building practices.
BASIX requirements for new homes advocate for the use of efficiency technologies in building design and planning. Compact fluorescent lighting, upgraded windows, and energy-efficient thermal insulation materials are already used extensively in new constructions as standard practices.
It is becoming popular to install solar heating systems and energy-efficient electrical appliances. Additionally, governments encourage these changes.
Smart Home Integration for Sustainable Living
Smart home systems are likely to be important in building design. Smart homes are progressing to be more than a convenience and are evolving as a tool to attain energy efficiency in residential design.
You can optimize energy usage with smart technologies such as
- smart thermostats,
- smart lights, and
- energy monitoring applications.
Eco-Friendly Materials and Sustainable Construction Practices
Material selection plays a significant role in the design of sustainable buildings. And, it is becoming one of the most innovative sustainable design trends for 2024.
Sustainable materials for construction are becoming mainstream because they are green and more durable. These include:
- low carbon concrete,
- reclaimed timber, and
- recycled steel.
Modular and prefabricated building systems and methods are also being adopted which limit resource consumption on site and reduce wastage.
Water Conservation and Efficient Water Use
Water scarcity had become an international issue. Therefore, water conservation is being given more priority in the BASIX requirements for new homes.
Features such as rainwater harvesting, grey water reusing, and low water consumption fixtures will be common in Australian houses by 2025 and in the years after.
Water-efficient households not only reduce pressure on existing water sources, but also lower their water bill making them economical as well as helping the environment. You can obtain a BASIX certificate after complying with water-efficiency certificates.
Enhanced Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ)
Sustainable building designs have two pillars: energy and water efficiency. However, it is evident that indoor environmental quality has also become an emerging sustainability trend for 2024.
For the year 2024, there will be greater emphasis on developing structures having natural air circulation and light penetration.
Low-VOC (volatile organic compounds) materials and efficient natural and artificial ventilation complement these features and allow designers to align with new BASIX certificate requirements. This results in enhanced indoor air quality.
Key 2024 Sustainable Design Trends Supported by BASIX Certificate
- Energy Efficiency: BASIX’s requirements for insulation, energy-efficient lighting, and appliances support a growing trend toward energy efficiency in residential design.
- Water Conservation: Water-saving initiatives that are in increasing demand due to the scarce water resources. BASIX certificate does not only allow for but mandates rainwater harvesting and water-efficient plumbing systems.
- Sustainable Materials: The BASIX certificate calls for the utilisation of sustainable and low-emission materials, which is geared to meet the 2024 goals of carbon footprint reduction in the construction of buildings.
The Role of the BASIX Certificate in Achieving Energy-Efficient Home Designs
Energy efficiency is basically an element that drives the BASIX Certificate. Hence, any home design that is aimed at cutting down energy consumption utilisation is bound to have this certificate. Additionally, it’s a legal requirement in NSW.
Thermal Insulation
All new homes must have proper insulation to reduce dependency on heating and cooling devices.
Energy Impact
BASIX requirements for new homes also aim to reduce heat loss by highlighting the requirements of double-glazed windows and doors insulation.
Renewable Energy Systems
The certificate supports the use of renewable energies such as solar power systems to reduce dependency on grid electricity.
How must the BASIX Certificate help with the Australian Sustainability Agenda?
Australia has a net-zero agenda with plans to cut the emission of greenhouse gases, improve water efficiency and strengthen the ability of buildings to withstand climate change. The BASIX Certificate is useful to meet the above goals as it prescribes the minimum requirements that each new house must comply with.
Here’s why theBASIX Report and Certificate are essential for meeting these objectives:
Reduced Carbon Emissions
BASIX requirements comply with Australia’s target carbon emissions reduction by including energy-efficient necessities within homes. By decreasing energy usage through good designs, the energy consumption or emissions from the domestic sector is lessened.
Enhanced Water Conservation
BASIX report and certificate have implemented stringent water use standards to restrict water use in houses, addressing the growing concern of global water shortages. The certification guarantees that new homes are constructed with water-efficient designs such as:
- rainwater collection,
- low-flow plumbing fixtures, and
- practical water-saving irrigation systems.
Alignment with National and International Standards
BASIX is consistent with national sustainability and international environmental obligations. By establishing minimum requirements for energy and water efficiency, the BASIX report and certificate fulfil Australia’s goals to make these minimum standards for the creation of homes relevant and effective even in the face of changing legislation and environmental considerations in the future.
Conclusion
As the focus on sustainable building design deepens, the BASIX Certificate continues to hold prominence. With policies aimed at ensuring energy and water use as well as building materials that are environmentally friendly, BASIX ensures that new housing units are built with an eye towards the environment. It is anticipated that this certification will still support Sustainable Design Trends for 2024, thus progressing Australia towards its environmental sustainability goals.
