In the article “Green buildings, Singapore’s natural ally for a greener future” by MacKenzie (2017), Singapore's continuous growth has redefined utilitarian designs of green buildings, adding weight to its contribution in tackling climate change. Being densely populated, Singapore generates high power consumption. The Building Construction Authority of Singapore has planned to overcome the issue by targeting to certify 80 percent of buildings with the Green Mark by 2030, as well as raising awareness about climate change. Many planners are also starting to enforce eco-friendly systems and materials into buildings. Contrary to popular belief, it is not hefty to integrate environmental elements to building’s design. The integration would serve as cost-efficient investments that are beneficial in the long run. It involves using light colors, maximising natural light, leveraging technology, installing suitable elements that promote sustainability and working with stakeholders. In working towards a greener future, making prudent decisions on a building’s design is critical, as it would be a pivotal weapon in Singapore’s fight against climate change.
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The article offers various suggestions on improving the energy efficiency of buildings. However, there is a lack of information regarding the requirements of obtaining the Green Mark for buildings as well as how the certification can aid in reducing power usage. These points will further emphasize the suitability on how it can aid in sustainability.
The Green Mark Scheme was introduced in 2015 by the Building and Construction Authority of Singapore to push the industry towards more environmentally friendly buildings. Buildings to undergo the certification process are required to meet certain criteria for the efficiency on the usage of resources, green features and many more. Having 80 percent of buildings to be certified with the mark will greatly benefit the eco-system as each criterion is to be viewed with high importance.
The scheme aims to create opportunities to allow contractors to do their part in being environmentally friendly. It has been reported to provide benefits such as expediting the reduction in energy, water and material resource usage, reducing potential environmental impact, improving indoor environmental quality for better health and well being as well as to provide a clearer direction for continual improvement. Ultimately, it projects the buildings in a more efficacious image and will further encourage more people to do their part in saving the environment.
Derek MacKenzie. (2017). Green buildings, Singapore’s natural ally for a greener future.
Retrieved from:
Retrieved from:
https://www.bca.gov.sg/greenmark/others/Green_Mark_NRB_2015_Criteria.pdf
BCA. (2019). Green mark buildings.
Retrieved from:
https://www.bca.gov.sg/greenmark/green_mark_buildings.html
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