Building-Integrated Greenery Systems

Abstract

This chapter delves into the assessment of various factors influencing building energy performance, with a focus on building-integrated greenery systems. It provides both qualitative and quantitative evaluations of techniques such as double-glazed windows, vertical greenery systems (VGSs), and integrated semi-transparent photovoltaic devices in architectural designs. Additionally, it discusses energy-saving strategies including heat-reflecting coatings, passive climate control, shading, and double-skinned green facades. Among these methods, VGS emerges as the most reliable, effective, and sustainable option. VGS not only reduces pollutants and enhances biodiversity but also contributes to improving urban environments. Economically, it aids buildings by reducing energy consumption and surface temperatures. VGS employs four key passive energy-saving mechanisms: shading against solar radiation, insulation against heat transfer, evaporative cooling through plant evapotranspiration, and altering wind influence on buildings. Studies have shown significant reductions in cooling loads with the implementation of VGS. For instance, cooling loads decreased by 28% with ivy-covered green walls. When compared to buildings without windows and facing different orientations, VGS implementation resulted in cooling load reductions of up to 20%, 18%, 8%, and 5% for west, east, south, and north orientations respectively. Furthermore, thin-film photovoltaic (PV) and vacuum glazing solutions offer high thermally resistant glazed areas on building envelopes, with average U-values of 1.1 and 0.4 W/m2K respectively. Adhering to energy use regulations is crucial for optimizing building energy consumption scenarios. These strategies provide valuable insights for architects and designers striving to create more sustainable built environments, energy efficient and environment friendly buildings. © 2025 selection and editorial matter, Shailendra Kumar Shukla; individual chapters, the contributors.