The role of acoustics in the context of green buildings

Abstract

The Green Building Council of South Africa (GBCSA) recognises good acoustics as a point of merit under the Indoor Environment Quality category of its rating tools. While good acoustics definitely has its place in design, what is its role in the greening of buildings? The concept of green building is most commonly thought of as a drive to decrease the carbon footprint of development and minimise the depletion of natural resources. However, this is only part of the motive. While we advocate saving the planet, in truth we are striving to save ourselves, mankind. The Green Building Council makes the statement that “building green is an opportunity to use resources efficiently and address climate change while creating healthier and more productive environments for people to live and work in” (Green Building Council South Africa, n.d.). In other words, building green is as much about the sustainability of the environment as it is about supporting the sustainability of people and businesses. What would be the point of building highly-rated green buildings if they were terrible spaces to occupy?