Recent airport designs are bigger and much more efficient, based on a look at recent projects in Mexico City, London, and China.
The Mexico City airport is expected to serve 50 million people a year with a design emphasizing energy efficiency. Gate locations will be spaced to make for easy walking, and the roof will include solar technology. There will also be an on-site energy plant that will collect, treat, and recycle rainwater.
Beijing Capital International Airport's Terminal 3 has a dragon-like design focused on efficiency, sustainability, and natural light. Skylights built into the soaring roof maximize morning sun. Connections between terminals take two minutes in a train that travels at 80 miles per hour, and the heating and cooling system is highly efficient.
London's Terminal 2 is the world's first BREEAM-certified airport project. It includes a number of features that reduce CO2 emissions, boost water efficiency, and a sophisticated lighting control system. The terminal is aiming to be recycling or composting 70% of its waste by 2020.
(http://money.cnn.com/2014/12/01/news/economy/future-airports/index.html)
Related Stories
Codes and Standards | Oct 12, 2021
Three new laws expected to spur more affordable housing in California
Trio of measures could aid carbon reduction in built environment.
Codes and Standards | Oct 11, 2021
New program to promote mass timber construction launched in Boston
City’s planning and development agency to award grants for projects in early-stage planning.
Codes and Standards | Oct 6, 2021
Intl. Code Council publishes EV and building codes resource
Assists communities in setting policies for electric vehicle charging requirements.
Codes and Standards | Oct 5, 2021
Feds award $1 billion to renovate health centers
Funds will modernize existing infrastructure and cover other COVID-19-related capital needs.
Codes and Standards | Oct 4, 2021
Boston City Council approves mandate for major emissions cuts for large buildings
Applies to buildings 20,000 sf or larger—about 4% of city’s buildings.
Codes and Standards | Oct 4, 2021
HPD Collaborative and Green Seal to align standards
Will result in expanded options for manufacturers to enhance sustainability reporting and certifications.
Codes and Standards | Sep 30, 2021
U.S. has a deficit of 5 million homes
Builders unable to keep pace with demand.
Codes and Standards | Sep 29, 2021
Mass Timber group study will compare structural round timber to glulam products and steel
Will compare costs, capabilities, and carbon impacts of structural materials.
Codes and Standards | Sep 28, 2021
Massachusetts creates Commission on Clean Heat
First-of-its kind body to set targets for buildings to reduce emissions from heating fuels.
Codes and Standards | Sep 27, 2021
Commercial real estate industry faces SEC climate disclosure regulations
Risks associated with climate change would have to be revealed.
