A Study of Sustainable Housing Construction in Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Sustainability involves a combination of environmental, economic and social responsibilities. With on-going environmental and energy concerns interest has shifted considerable to more sustainable concept in architecture. The concept of sustainability is driven by the need to protect the environment and save energy Other factors include health related concerns and the need to improve the quality of life of the population at large . In architecture the concept of sustainable construction is about the formulation of climate responsive designs This paper presents a study of sustainable housing construction in Saudi Arabia. To achieve its aims firstly; it will present a broad understanding of current housing construction methods and practices in Saudi Arabia . Furthermore , the study will use the international standard of sustainable buildings BREEAM. An investigation will be carried to analyse energy consumption levels of current houses. In addition the study will also incorporate To successfully achieve the aims, the study will also incorporate these objectives:

 To show the importance of sustainable construction
 To promote sustainability in developing countries
 To limit the impact of construction to climate change
 To evaluate current construction techniques in Saudi Arabia
 To identify any challenges in implementing sustainable construction
 To identify sustainable processes in housing construction in Saudi Arabia

This research gives a more comprehensive approach to new and old construction methods in achieving sustainability. It will also provide a new meaning to sustainability by identifying design related faults in modern construction and will educate the entire population about the need for sustainability in Saudi Arabia . Finally, this thesis will recommend a set of methods and guidelines to be used in the development of sustainable buildings in Saudi Arabia.