Final answer:
Sustainable architecture focuses on reducing environmental impact through energy-efficient systems, sustainable building materials, and green design principles that are integrated into the construction of exterior wall systems.
Step-by-step explanation:
Sustainability Considerations in Exterior Wall Systems
Sustainable Architecture, also known as green architecture, is an architectural philosophy that emphasizes the use of materials and energy conservation to reduce the environmental impact of buildings. The movement gained momentum in the mid-1980s and now includes the use of renewable energy sources such as wind and solar. Sustainable architecture aims to minimize buildings' environmental impact by employing energy-efficient systems and sustainable building materials.
When considering exterior wall systems, sustainability involves using materials that are durable, have low environmental impact, and provide efficient insulation. For instance, contemporary architectural materials like fast-drying and self-healing cement, renewable bamboo, and technologically advanced aluminum that maintains the strength of steel—all contribute to sustainable building practices. Moreover, innovating bricks that absorb air pollution and the use of recycled wood or steel materials help in reducing the overall impact on the environment.
Specific sustainability considerations also involve the construction methods used. Examples of sustainable construction include "skin and skeleton" concepts and the "shell" system. The former pertains to buildings with an internal structure of one material and an exterior cladding of different material, while the latter refers to a system where the exterior cladding and the load-bearing structure are the same. The integration of green spaces and vertical farms within building designs is another facet of sustainable architecture, demonstrating the industry's movement towards environmental considerations even in urban settings.