How To Coexist Sustainable Housing Development And Environmental Management
How To Coexist Sustainable Housing Development And Environmental Management
The world population demographics are greatly changing such as age and urbanization which influence housing consumption.
The world’s rapid rate of urbanization continues to increase pressure on housing infrastructure in urban areas. This has led to the growth of slums and informal settlements due to inadequate affordable housing facilities.
High demand for housing consumption has increased the demand for land as a resource and extraction of natural resources for housing development.
On the other hand, the sprawl of informal settlements contributes to environmental degradation through waste disposal. Housing development has also encroached forest protected and water catchment areas compromising environmental sustainability.
There has been overexploitation of natural resources such as land, water and energy to support the housing sector and therefore the need to integrate environmental sustainability into development policies. There should be sustainable extraction of resources to ensure the resources are available for use by both the current and future generations.
The concept of sustainability in housing as shelter should be in harmony with the natural environment. Sustainable housing ensures;
a) Appropriate use of land and its resources.
b) Effective utilization of water, energy, and other resources
c) Enhance human health by ensuring proper waste disposal
d) Protection of cultural, agricultural and archaeological resources
e) Conservation of animals, endangered species and natural habitat
f) Strengthen local economies and community
Sustainable housing should majorly focus on
1. Energy management
Responsible use of energy is critical to sustainability and is an environmental concern.
Energy management should ensure the most efficient use of energy in homes and advocate for renewable sources of energy and minimize energy-related pollution. Suitable design and building should maximize natural temperature and light control.
2. Waste management
This involves the reduction of the generation of household waste, minimizing consumer demand for products that generate hazardous waste and practicing conservation of resources.
Waste reduction should be enhanced by limiting the use of packaged products and minimizing the use of disposable products.
3. Air and water quality
Protection of water sources and sustainable use should be promoted through pollution control; and enhancing both indoor and outdoor air quality
Therefore, governments and development partners should ensure environmental aspects are integrated into development policies and programmes for the prosperity of both the environment and housing sector thus sustainable development.
How To Coexist Sustainable Housing Development And Environmental Management