Many countries around the globe have set targets to achieve a net zero status in the foreseeable future. Net zero means the total of greenhouse gases emitted by a country will also be removed from the atmosphere through carbon sequestration initiatives i.e. the planting of trees, the use of clean energy, and the implementation of sustainable practices etc.
It’s no secret that the built environment and all its related industries contribute to the bulk of greenhouse gases. In getting to net zero, this industry should specifically aim to do more.
Enter: Carbon Negative Architecture. This is when a building not only aims to produce less carbon but also removes MORE of it during its lifetime.
Doing so not only helps to heal the planet but also directly impacts the health of humankind.
RELATED: Sustainable Simplicity: Why Architecture Should Be Focussed Around People & The Planet
7 Innovative Strategies of Carbon Negative Architecture
- Passive Design
Passive design means working with nature to select building sites that naturally benefit from shade, sunlight and wind protection. In doing so architects can reduce the need for artificial heating, cooling and lighting.
- Façade Design
The “skin” of a building is not just about how it looks, it can also assist with carbon management. Carbon-storing concrete, advanced HVAC-integrated facade systems, CO₂-absorbing paints, and vertical gardens can transform buildings into active air purifiers. Green walls, for instance, reduce urban pollution while also acting as thermal insulators.
- Climate Responsive Design
Buildings can be designed to endure extreme weather while minimising energy demands. This involves strong structural designs that can withstand high winds, floods or heatwaves, along with high-performance insulation to maintain internal comfort. A well-designed climate-responsive building protects both its occupants and the planet.
- Reducing Energy Usage and Using Renewable Energy
The first step is always to reduce energy consumption. This can be done through simple yet effective measures like installing triple-glazed windows, using LED lighting, and integrating smart energy management systems. Once consumption is minimised, renewable energy sources such as solar panels or geothermal heating can be implemented to meet the remaining energy needs sustainably.
- Using Sustainable Materials
Choosing sustainable materials like reclaimed wood, bamboo, cork and hempcrete can significantly lower a building’s carbon footprint. Even something as simple as minimising the use of finishing materials, like choosing polished concrete floors instead of covering them with tiles, can have an impact. Every choice, down to the wall paint or floor covering, can tilt a building toward carbon negativity.
- Implementing Smart Tech
Imagine an office building where the lights and temperature adjust dynamically depending on the time of day and number of employees. Smart technology like energy monitoring systems, AI-powered heating and cooling and automated lighting can help buildings adapt in real-time to reduce waste.
- Upgrading Old Buildings
New is nice but it isn’t always necessary. Instead of demolishing, architects can look at retrofitting existing structures. Upgrading insulation, installing efficient windows, and incorporating renewable energy solutions into old buildings extends their lifespan and avoids added emissions.
5 Reasons Why Carbon Negative Architecture Matters
- Carbon negative can heal the environment
Carbon negative buildings actively help to slow the pace of climate change. In using carbon-storing materials or integrating green roofs we can clean the air, while also reducing the urban heat island effect.
- Carbon negative can heal humans
Buildings designed with carbon negative strategies don’t just protect the planet, they also support human health. Cleaner air and buildings aimed at thermal, visual and acoustic comfort, reduce illness and enhance wellbeing. Biophilic elements like greenery and natural light lower stress and boost mood, while thoughtful and open layouts and outdoor spaces inspire movement and connection with nature.
- Carbon negative can reduce operational costs
Designs that focus on energy efficiency through natural ventilation, insulation and passive heating and cooling can lower energy bills. For example, a home built with triple-glazed windows and high-quality insulation requires less heating and cooling, meaning reduced costs.
- Carbon negative can encourage communities to think about the environment more
Buildings that lead the way in carbon negative design inspire the communities around them. When people see living examples, like a local school with a green roof or an office park powered by solar, it starts conversations and can hopefully lead to more sustainable choices over time.
- Carbon negative can drive future change
The more demand there is for carbon negative buildings, the more innovative the world can become. Picture future neighbourhoods where houses are not only built sustainably but actively repair environmental damage…
RELATED: The Role Architecture Can Play In Environmental Preservation
At Veld Architects, we are excited about the future of architecture. We believe it can be fundamental in the positive change the world needs – from healing the planet to healing humans. But while architects can design for this, the real driver of change is YOU – the client. Because where there is demand there will always be supply.
Join the VELD Lifestyle.
Make your next design a VELD design.
Love,
xxx
Gill
FAQs
What are zero carbon buildings?
Zero carbon buildings are structures that produce no net carbon emissions during their operation by using energy-efficient designs and renewable energy sources.
What is carbon architecture?
Carbon architecture refers to design approaches that focus on managing a building’s carbon footprint, whether by reducing emissions, capturing carbon, or promoting sustainability throughout a building’s lifecycle.
What is net zero architecture?
Net zero architecture is when a building balances the amount of energy it uses with the amount of renewable energy it produces, resulting in zero net energy consumption and emissions.
What is carbon negative architecture?
Carbon negative architecture goes a step beyond net zero by removing more carbon dioxide from the atmosphere than it emits over its lifetime.
Why does sustainable architecture matter?
Sustainable architecture matters because it helps reduce the built environment’s impact on climate change, protects natural resources, improves human health, and creates resilient communities for future generations.
How does sustainable architecture help the environment?
Sustainable architecture helps the environment by reducing energy use, cutting carbon emissions, conserving water, using eco-friendly materials, and often restoring natural ecosystems around built areas.
