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Test 1 I rEADIng pASSAgE 3

by drawing on the use of natural resources — none more so than the sun and
its rich source of energy. Thanks to the rapid development of photovoltaic
technology, solar energy can now be easily converted into the form of electricity
required for household appliances and lighting, thereby reducing reliance on
fossil fuels for energy needs. A solar panel is usually fixed to the roof of the
building, with the most popular systems made of semi–conductors such as
silicon, incorporating an outer layer comprised of glass. As sunlight reaches
the glass panel, the rays are absorbed and later passed through an inverter — a
device necessary for converting this energy into a useable form of electricity.
The popularity of solar technology has soared in recent years and, with
increasing numbers of households endorsing this as a feasible and cost–
effective method, it has been hailed as the answer to the energy crisis. Still, the
misconception exists that a high volume of sunny days are required to produce
adequate energy to meet the needs of a household. In reality, the system only
requires daylight to operate. Critics of the approach dispute its true eco–friendly
label, as a number of chemicals, thought to contribute to global warming, have
been linked with the production and manufacturing methods of this technology.
Moreover, until this technology advances further it will remain an expensive
option for the masses, at least in terms of set–up costs.
As the building industry strives to achieve self–sufficient buildings, more of a
focus is placed on effective water management and collection systems. Systems
for rainwater collection can be integrated into the roof of a building at the design
stage, and the water can, amongst other things, be used for showering. In this
case, water must be purified to ensure it meets safety standards. Alternatively,
barrels located around the building can collect rainwater, which can be used for
watering the plants.
Architects are ever more turning their thoughts to the materials used in
construction, and how these materials impact the natural world. In fact, due
to some traditional building materials being accused of having high toxicity
levels that contribute to greenhouse gases, the use of eco–friendly material is
gaining popularity. From used aluminium cans in the roofing design, to straw
for insulation in the walls, there are several examples of buildings using unusual
resources. Consideration of the materials used and careful planning on the part
of the designer means that environmental damage and overconsumption of
materials is kept to a minimum. One example is the Dalby Forest Visitor Centre in
central England. This public building is largely constructed of recycled materials
and made in such a way that, if ever demolished, all components would be
recyclable. Making the switch to greener architecture has added benefits for
occupants, by potentially protecting their health; traditional building materials
may be associated with various health issues, mainly thought to result from the
hazardous substances found in some materials.
Working towards a greater number of energy–efficient buildings is a top priority.
As governments around the world are waking up to the reality of climate
change, many are starting to take action. In the United Kingdom for example,
newly constructed buildings will soon be required by law to conform to greener
building regulations which work towards a zero carbon status — an idea
supported by many nations.
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