Evaluation method regarding the effect of building design in the context of sustainable development

In this essay a method for the evaluation of building design is formed, which takes into consideration the crucial parameters of design and evaluates their environmental impact during the life-cycle of a building (construction, operation, and demolition). Buildings of similar geometrical characteristics, but constructed of different materials are being compared. According to this method, the parameters being evaluated are the energy consumed during the construction and operation of a building, as well as its toxic behavior and the different pollutants that appear in the various stages of its life-cycle. In addition, the assimilation of its materials and therefore of the building itself by the environment is being considered. 
 
At first, the quantity of construction materials used is being measured out, in order to determine the embodied energy of the total structure. Secondly, with the use of proper software, the required energy for the heating and cooling of each residence is being calculated. As a result, an energy-time diagram is formed which indicates the long-term energy behavior of the residences, starting from their embodied energy. Following the above, a comparison of the different type of residences is being made regarding their assimilation by the environment, the evaluation of materials’ toxic behavior and the presence of pollutants in the various stages of construction. Moreover, due to the fact that the lifetime of modern buildings can be exceptionally variable, each residence should be recycled or reused along with its materials.