In its broadest sense, sustainable development is that which "satisfies the needs of the present generation without compromising the chance for future generations to satisfy theirs" (Brundtland Report 1987)
In order to address the issues of sustainability in our design work, we consider emissions; energy use; effect on ecosystems; availability and scarcity of resources; life cycle costs & maintenance; Waste & re-use; Community.
Low energy design starts with consideration of orientation, siting, shading and relationship to the sun. It is usually possible to design out the need for large energy inputs into buildings.
Practical low energy construction may include appropriate emerging green technology such as insulation derived from hemp, recycled fabric, recycled newspaper or sheeps wool; Straw bale construction; Solar Thermal and photovoltaic systems; Wind power generation; Environmentally friendly paints and varnishes.