Near Zero-Energy Buildings in Lebanon: The Use of Emerging Technologies and Passive Architecture

Osama Omar
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Osama Omar: Faculty of Architecture, Design and Built Environment, Beirut Arab University, Beirut 1107 2809, Lebanon

Sustainability, 2020, vol. 12, issue 6, 1-13

Abstract: Architecture always aims to find solutions for problems around the world. One of the major trends at present relates to energy consumption and climate change. Construction is responsible for 18% of CO 2 emissions. However, continuing to use fuel as a main source of energy consumption for economic reasons, as it is the cheapest raw material and most easily available material for most of the Arab countries, results in a negative environmental impact on the quality of life in these countries. This paper investigates a new design concept and decision-supporting tools for zero-energy buildings. Based on critical thinking as a new mechanism to create a hierarchy of designing a building, the research presents the experience of the author in teaching architecture courses for postgraduates for five years (ARCH 662: Architecture Design and Decision-Supporting Tools and Arch 663: Advanced Sustainable Architecture). The result of this research could be new methodologies that help and guide the architect in creating more zero-energy buildings in their countries. In addition, the spread of knowledge in the future generation of architects in architecture schools will mean that new designers believe in protecting and taking care of their environment, which will increase awareness of environmental issues and improve the quality of life in these countries.

Keywords: decision support; zero-energy building; energy consumption; behavior of user; passive house (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2020
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (4)

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