ABSTRACT

Sustainable housing can be defined as the affordable and safe provision of shelter and domestic services with minimal negative impacts on the environment. Aspects of environmentally sustainable housing include the use of renewable energy, passive provision of thermal comfort and lighting (using naturally available energy inputs), high thermal efficiency, and use of construction materials with low lifecycle environmental impacts. From an economic perspective, sustainable housing should be affordable and retain its value. From a social perspective, sustainable housing should be safe, accessible, and provide a healthy indoor living environment.