ABSTRACT
Active design does not end at the building. It also extends to the surrounding spaces, where landscaping will affect the climate internally in the buildings. Trees, bushes and grass have a cooling effect due to evapotranspiration from their surfaces which cool the ambient air, a shading effect and a low reflectivity of heat. Pavements, which absorb and reflect heat, must be avoided. The external environment is particularly important in the hot climatic zones, where most people spend a great deal of their time outdoors. The outdoor areas should be treated as an extension of the living and working spaces.
