ABSTRACT
The fast-expanding economies of China and, to a lesser extent, the Gulf States, India, Brazil and South Africa provide an interesting snapshot of the impact of sustainability on architectural design. Although this is evident in many types of buildings, in the commercial sector market forces tend to be more important than local construction laws in driving the agenda of low-energy design. This is because investors, owners and tenants recognise the value of green buildings both in terms of the balance sheet and in ensuring that occupants have good standards of indoor comfort.
