Building Performance Comparative Study: The Indoor Environment Quality and Energy Efficiency – Green Building vs. Conventional Building

Abstract

It has been argued that the “green” building has a better indoor environment quality than the conventional building. This concern for the poor indoor environment quality of the building will cause symptoms of “sick building syndrome” and will affect the health of occupants. In addition, energy efficiency is fundamental to attain sustainability in green buildings. But there is no evidence directly showing us that a green building is more comfortable and satisfactory than a conventional building. This research determines the difference in indoor environment quality (IEQ) of both buildings through finding out the parameters of IEQ and testing the occupants' perception and satisfaction. A green building and a conventional building will be targeted, and a list of questionnaires will be given to the occupants to obtain their perception and their satisfaction level. The responses from the occupants of the different buildings will be compared to look into the difference.

Key Terms in this Chapter

Occupants: A person who resides or is present in a building.

Sustainable: A meaning that meeting our own needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.

Indoor: A space situated or used within a building or under cover.

Satisfaction: Satisfaction is getting thing that brings gratification, pleasure, or contentment.

Parameter: A measurable factor forming one of a set that defines a system or sets the conditions of its operation.

Efficiency: Efficiency is the ability to avoid wasting materials, energy, efforts, money, and time in doing something or in producing a desired result.

Energy: Power derived from the utilization of physical or chemical resources, especially to provide light and heat or to work machines.