Build for Tomorrow: Sustainable Materials for Smarter Cities
Abstract
Abstract
Sustainable materials are revolutionizing urban development by reducing the carbon footprint of buildings, fostering climate-smart and resilient cities. Key examples include green concrete, which utilizes industrial waste and lowers greenhouse gas emissions, and recycled steel, which requires less energy than producing new steel. Cross-laminated timber (CLT) is also gaining popularity for its strength and renewability, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional building materials. Smart glass, which adjusts light transmission, based on external conditions, and phase change materials, which absorb and release thermal energy, enhance building efficiency by optimizing indoor climate. Additionally, organic photovoltaics (OPVs) represent a groundbreaking approach to solar energy, featuring flexibility and lightweight characteristics ideal for diverse building applications. Green roofing, which involves rooftop vegetation, improves insulation, supports urban biodiversity, and reduces stormwater runoff. Permeable pavements further reduce flooding risks by allowing water infiltration, while recycled plastics are repurposed into construction materials to minimize waste and conserve resources. The ultimate aim of smart cities is to create resilient, sustainable, and efficient urban environments that prioritize both technological advancement and human well-being. This study explores the extensive literature on sustainable materials and their effective use in various building components. By integrating net-zero practices and sustainable materials, architects and engineers can create buildings that are not only energy-efficient but also contribute positively to the environment, leading the way in green urban development.
Keyword: Smart city, sustainable building materials, green materials, net zero buildings, green construction matrix
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