Sustainable Approach to Developing Energy Efficient Buildings for Resilient Future of the Built Environment in Nigeria

Abstract

Globally, it is acknowledged that the building sector has a significant contribution to energy consumption and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. According to the united nation environmental programme (UNEP) sustainable construction and building initiative (SCBI); 30- 40% of global energy use comes from the building sector. This has been predicted to rise by 34% in the next 20 years at an average of 1.5%. In most developing countries, particularly those in tropical regions such as Nigeria, the challenge of energy consumption in buildings is exacerbated by extreme high temperature and intense solar radiation which drives the quest to use more energy within the buildings. This paper aims to explore sustainable approaches to developing and improving energy efficiency for residential buildings in Nigeria. The objective is to reduce energy consumption through the application of greener construction methods, retrofitting existing structures and introduction of self-sufficient energy supply using existing technologies. A survey method was adopted to collect internal climatic data conducted on urban residences in northern Nigeria. Findings suggests that achieving energy efficient buildings would require adapting to the changing energy constrained the world, appropriate planning and design for energy efficient buildings; and retrofitting existing buildings for a future where energy supplies are running out and prices are rising high. The paper recommended sustainable approaches such as energy efficient building envelope, use of active and passive measures and behavioural changes. It concludes that there is a need for developing, adopting and promoting resilience in policies, planning and practices for sustainable built environment. This could result in an enormous reduction of GHG emissions.