EXPLORING GREEN BUILDING TECHNOLOGY FOR GREENEER TOMORROW CASE STUDY: KIGALI /RWANDA

Abstract

This project, titled "Exploring Green Building Technology for a Greener Tomorrow" addresses the environmental challenges posed by traditional construction methods, which often result in high energy consumption, waste generation, and resource depletion. The research explores green building technologies such as energy-efficient systems, rainwater harvesting, and the use of recycled materials like steel, glass, and plastic to promote sustainable construction practices. A case study from Kigali, Rwanda, is presented to demonstrate the real-world application of these technologies. The research methodology involved data collection through surveys, interviews with construction professionals, and performance tests comparing green and conventional buildings. The study aimed to assess the impact of green building technologies on reducing waste, lowering energy consumption, and conserving natural resources. Results showed that water consumption was reduced by 30%, power usage by 40%, and solar energy systems provided up to 25% energy savings. Additionally, improvements in natural lighting and air ventilation resulted in a 20% and 15% enhancement in indoor environmental quality, respectively. The findings reveal that green building technologies significantly reduce the environmental impact of construction while offering cost-saving benefits. However, challenges such as higher initial costs and the need for increased awareness among stakeholders persist. The study concludes that adopting these technologies is essential for a sustainable future in construction and recommends further research to explore their long-term benefits and incorporation into Rwanda’s construction policies.