Website : http://www.wisegeek.com/ What is sustainable architecture?

Sustainable architecture is architecture which is designed in an environmentally friendly way. The goal of sustainable or green architecture is to create structures which are beautiful and functional, but which also contribute to a sustainable lifestyle and culture. Interest in sustainable architecture grew radically in the early 21st century in response to growing concerns about the environment, but in fact people have been building sustainably for thousands of years, because sustainable projects are often practical in nature. A truly sustainable building will have a design which addresses a number of issues, including heating and cooling, water usage, environmental quality, and energy usage. Architects can deal with environmental aspects of building construction in a variety of ways, all of which are designed to increase efficiency without being cumbersome or detracting from the function of the building. Much of sustainable architecture focuses on building intelligently. For example, a building may be oriented towards the south in the Northern Hemisphere so that the building will be warmed through the day by the sun, and a building may be insulated with extra care to minimize heat loss. Plumbing systems may be designed to utilize less water while still functioning normally, and the building might include smart lighting which turns off when people are not around to save energy. Installing green roofs or living walls is another example of sustainable architecture. These projects increase heating and cooling efficiency, help scrub the air, and look aesthetically interesting, making them beneficial from many points of view. Other sustainable architecture trends include the use of geothermal energy for heating, reclaimed water for flushing toilets, and other innovative techniques which are designed to reduce the environmental footprint of a building. Many architects build sustainably to show people that it is possible, and to illustrate the fact that being environmentally friendly does not have to make a building ugly. In fact, many of the measures which increase efficiency can make a building more interesting and beautiful to look at, and they can also improve quality of life for users of the building. A courtyard with plants, for example, can be a good sustainability move, and it also creates a pleasant outdoor space for people to use. Anything from a private home to a towering office building can be constructed with sustainable ideals in mind. Sustainable architecture principles can also be applied to the retrofitting and remodeling of existing structures, because conversion is more environmentally friendly than demolition and rebuilding in most cases. Many governments provide incentives for people who address sustainability issues in construction projects, which has contributed to the rise of sustainable architecture around the world.

What Are the Different Types of Sustainable Architecture Design?

Sustainable architecture design uses types of design techniques to achieve greater sustainability in energy, land, and water usage, as well as in building materials. Sustainable energy design takes climate and natural

geographical features into consideration, in an effort to use those attributes to reduce impact on the environment. Energy conservation can be achieved to a greater degree in new construction, as choices are many at the pre-construction stage. For example, in planning to build a home on a lot, sustainable architecture design would factor in geographical features, such as a lot's orientation to the angle of sunlight throughout the day and seasons. This sunlight factor may be considered as both a potential negative and positive on the overall energy usage of the structure. If there is abundant sunlight from one direction, then solar panels may be installed on the roof. At the same time, window coverings may be designed to respond to more or less light through manual or automatic means, with an aim toward reducing the amount of heating or cooling that is required. Another type of eco-friendly architecture addresses energy needed to maintain a certain comfort level. Many possibilities for reducing energy consumption are available and include technology that regulates energy output, stores energy, produces energy, and conserves energy through active or passive means. For example, for a home situated in a windy place, a small wind turbine could offer a homeowner cheap, renewable energy generation. The choice of building materials is another type of sustainable architecture design. The choice in traditional building materials arose in various cultures over time, with people generally using locally abundant materials to erect buildings. These included plants, stones and rocks, wood, and animal hair, fur, or hides. In modern societies, building codes were developed that conformed to specifications for load-bearing, zoning, and other methods used both to make safer buildings, and to limit development in certain areas. The challenge in sustainable architecture design is that these materials are not necessarily the most scientific choice, but since they are traditional and have been included building codes, they are easier to use. Alternative building materials may incorporate natural fibers and materials, as well as mixtures of fibers and resin called composites. An example of this type of architecture design would be straw bale construction. Bales of straw are stacked and placed in spaces between outer and inner walls. Since farming practices around the world produce abundant straw, the material is readily available and inexpensive, and it offers significant reductions in energy costs for heating and cooling. Composites are lightweight, but very strong, and can replace other manufactured materials requiring more energy to be produced and shipped. Landscaping in sustainable architecture design is another type of design technique. Choices in plants that are more suited to the local environment can decrease water usage while preserving topsoil. Replacing the traditional grass lawn with sustainable plantings of native grasses and plants can also eliminate mowing.

What Are the Different Types of Green Home Building?

There are three primary types of green home building, which is a type of construction that is eco-friendly. These generally include buildings constructed or renovated with sustainable or renewable materials, energy efficient homes, and structures with both characteristics made with sustainable materials and operate in an environmentally-friendly manner. Many of those fabricated using green home building plans are also designed to be healthier for residents and visitors. Green homes built or renovated with sustainable also sometimes known as renewable materials are items and products that can be replenished, or are recycled or recyclable. For example, when a building or home is

knocked down, or a portion of it is demolished, some companies reclaim any building materials that can be used in making other homes. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), some common reclaimed building materials include marble fireplace mantles, antique fixtures, old-growth hardwood floors, wide-plank lumber, and knot-free wood with a fine grain. Using recycled materials to build or renovate a home is another type of green home building. Recycled home building materials may be used items, items that have been rebuilt or reconditioned, or products that are manufactured from re-made parts. The second type of green home is one that is energy efficient. This can originate from a multitude of places. For instance, installing energy efficient appliances that use less water and require less energy to operate is more efficient and can make a home more green. Proper insulation is another example of ways to maximize energy use in the home. For those who take this form of efficiency a step further, the home may contain solar panels on the roof, use rain barrels to capture water for landscape irrigation, and be painted with paints that do not emit toxic fumes. The final green home building type is a hybrid of the two aforementioned options. In such a newly-built home, the entire building may be made of sustainable, renewable, or recycled products. In addition, features like the insulation, appliances, and heating and cooling system may be as energy efficient as possible, Also, the structure may be void of toxic materials, so that the home is healthy for the people in it and is friendly to the environment. While it may be necessary for some new parts to be used in building a home, the less waste created and the more reused materials are included, the more green the home is.

What Are Sustainable Homes?

Sustainable homes are those that incorporate sustainable or recycled building materials into the design. They also use renewable energy sources wherever possible, and rely on eco-friendly furnishings, paints, appliances, and cleaning products. Residents of sustainable homes also often try to incorporate sustainable living into their everyday lives. They look for new ways to shrink waste, conserve energy, and reduce their carbon footprint. This is often accomplished by using less water, less electricity, and more eco-friendly products as often as possible. Also called "green homes," "eco-friendly homes," "sustainable construction," and "solar houses," sustainable homes are generally beneficial for the environment as they rely on the five basic principles of sustainable architecture and sustainable building. Sustainable homes use earth's natural resources wisely and improve indoor air quality. They optimize the use of the sun and use the land responsibly. Sustainable homes are highperformance, moisture-resistant dwellings. Sustainable homes are not only green on the inside, but they are also green outside. This means the owners of green buildings, whether they be commercial, multi-family, or public, and owners of green homes will frequently use all-natural pesticides and fertilizers instead of commercial products for landscapes, lawns, and gardens. They are also more likely to compost. Many homeowners will plant trees and shrubs on the northern exposure to create a natural windbreak, and they may also allow a small portion of their lawn to grow wild in order to provide a natural habitat for butterflies, birds, and other wildlife. Many benefits are offered by sustainable homes, but the main benefit is how it helps to reduce emissions. In the United States, average homes generate 20 percent of the nations emissions. By opting for a sustainable home, green homeowners can help reduce the greenhouse gasses added to the atmosphere.

Sustainable homes can be built from the ground up or prefabricated, or an existing home can be converted into a sustainable home. Prefabricated homes, such as the modular Glidehouse, can be erected just about anywhere. In addition, they may offer a shortened sustainable construction time frame, prepackaged green living solutions, and high-quality sustainable architecture design. People who are interested in living a greener lifestyle, but who don't have the resources to build a new sustainable house, can improve the sustainability of an existing structure. Green building novices can convert one area of their home or apartment at a time, while others can hire a green building specialist to help with a building overhaul. A few of the sustainable materials and furnishings commonly used in sustainable building or rehabbing include ceiling fans, triple paned windows, reclaimed lumber or natural flooring, compact fluorescent lights, and insulation made from cotton, mineral wool, or cellulose. These are natural materials, as mineral wool is made from natural rock or blast-furnace slag a by-product of steel production, and cellulose is made from recycled newsprint.

What Is Sustainable Building?

Sustainable building is an environmentally friendly approach to the creation of new structures, as well as the remodeling of existing buildings. The concept of green building is based on the idea of using materials that are renewable in the construction of the edifice, as well as making use of alternative energy strategies to make the building comfortable for the occupants. By using various methods that are considered ecologically sound, the building and its occupants will leave a smaller carbon footprint on the landscape and thus promote the well being of the environment for future generations. The process of sustainable building seeks to make the best use of building materials that are already on hand, or that are renewable in nature. This provides a wide range of resources that can be called upon when engaging in the task of creating sustainable architecture. The design may call for using materials that are recycled, such as harvested bricks or timber, or even unconventional materials such as glass bottles or old car tires. Sustainable designs may also make use of harvested materials such as straw for the insulation or wall construction, effectively using a resource that is easily renewable each growing season. Along with using renewable or recycled building materials, the sustainable architect will also address the use of green methods to provide energy and utility services for the building. This may involve the inclusion of solar panels to collect natural energy for heating, cooling, and operating appliance within the space. Turbines to capture wind and create energy may also be incorporated into the sustainable building design. These systems may be used as the main source of power, or be utilized to augment the power obtained off the local power grid, if current regulations require the new building to be connected with a preexisting grid. One of the best resources for the creation and design of sustainable building is the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, commonly referred to as LEED. This type of system provides data on the various types of sustainable design and construction that are likely to make a positive impact on the environment while also creating a safe and healthy space for people to live and work. The use of LEED-based recommendations and data can also prove helpful when remodeling an existing edifice into a sustainable building, since the system can provide helpful information on a number of building alternatives. LEED can help builders with such matters as the installation of alternative energy sources, environmentally friendly ways to insulate the space, and other valuable tips that can be used to make the building a truly green one.

What Is Sustainable Design?

Sustainable design is a kind of design meant to yield products that are made only of renewable resources. Furthermore, products made though sustainable design are intended not to seriously impact the environment either when they are being created or when they are being used. These products are also often designed to allow the users to feel more connected or to relate more closely to the natural environment. Sustainable design is also called "environmental design" and "environmentally-conscious design." It is also sometimes called "environmentally sustainable design" or "ESD." No matter what it is called, this kind of a design is just as much a philosophy as it is a practice. It is based on economic, ecological, and social principles regarding the importance of sustainability. Products that are yielded from this kind of design range from the tiny to the massive. A tote bag made of recycled products that is intended to be used instead of paper or plastic bags at the grocery store is an example of sustainable design. While this everyday product is small, when folded up, to fit inside of a purse, it is a perfect example of the philosophy of sustainable design. Sustainable design can create much, much larger products. In fact, this kind of design can be used to create buildings, even skyscrapers. In fact, it can be used to plan and develop entire cities. Not only can it be applied to civil engineering and architecture, but it can also be applied to landscape architecture. Some fashion designers have also used the philosophy of sustainable design in their work by producing entire lines of clothing that are made with renewable resources. Interior designers have done the same by using earthfriendly fabrics, wall coverings, and flooring materials in their work. Because of this new trend among fashion and interior designers, many textile companies have begun to market more fabrics made out of renewable resources. For the past few decades, it has become increasingly clear that it is important to protect the earth and its resources. Many researchers and activists have pointed out that if we reap the earth of all of its resources that we will leave ourselves without a place to live. The philosophy of sustainable design leads to a way of life and products that are used during everyday life that protect the earth and sustain its resources so that it can continue provide humans wth sufficient resources.

What Is Green Building Design?

Green building design is a term used to identify the various aspects of creating structures using environmentally friendly materials and methods. The green design concept also encompasses the idea of ensuring the buildings are energy efficient and continue to interact more favorably with the ecosystem than other building options. In general, there are three important areas that must be addressed in order for the architecture to be considered a true green building design. The selection of materials is one of the key aspects of green building design. Selecting materials that are considered sustainable is very important when it comes to building green. Using recycled materials to construct interior and exterior walls helps to divert those materials from ending up in landfills. In like manner, the reuse of materials obtained from demolished structures can often meet this requirement. Even the use of renewable resources such as bales of straw for the walls of the home would count as an eco-friendly approach to construction of a new building.

When possible, local materials should be used in the construction of the green building. This not only helps to ensure the materials are friendly to the local environment but also minimizes the use of fossil fuels to transport materials to the building site. Along with the selection of materials, making the building energy efficient is also important to the task of green building design. Often this means finding ways to maximize the use of natural lighting, the installation of power sources such as solar panels or wind energy generation devices, and the purchase of energy efficient appliances to minimize the use of energy from any source. The efficient use of water for showers, toilets and even for washing clothes and doing dishes is usually addressed. Even details such as the selection of colors for the home may come into play as a means of enhancing the green aspects of the energy saving measures. Landscaping on the building site is also part of the overall process of green building design. Just as the building itself makes efficient use of recycled or reclaimed materials, the landscaping does the same. Any paving is accomplished using recycled products. The selection of plans for the space focuses on plants that require little water and can thrive without the need for the use of chemical based pesticides. Decorative beds are designed and constructed so they can be maintained using compost and mulch generated on the property. Even any outdoor furnishings should be constructed using natural or reclaimed materials, thus eliminating the need to fashion benches or other seating from previously unused resources. Ideally, a true sustainable building design will situate the structure so that it works with the surrounding terrain and causes minimal impact on the area. Homes may be constructed in a manner that allows one side of the structure to be enclosed by a hillside, thus maximizing the insulation of the home while also allowing the structure to blend in with the countryside. The creation of a true green building design can take time and precision to accomplish. In many countries, standards have been put in place to determine if a building project can truly be referred to as green. In the United States, LEED, or Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, can provide information on how to construct a home or other building so it can rightfully be known as a green building design.

What Is a Zero Energy Building?

A zero energy building is a type of structure that produces the same amount of energy as it consumes. This results in zero net energy usage, which gives the building its name. The building is designed to be selfsufficient when it comes to electrical needs. The layout and materials used in the building normally assist in maintaining an ideal atmosphere inside the structure. This removes some load in the generators, making it easy to achieve zero net energy consumption. Environmental concern is the main reason why the net zero energy building was conceptualized. By creating a building that relies primarily on alternative energy, the dependence on fossil fuel is minimized. The building does this by integrating electrical generators in the structure. The electricity typically comes from renewable energy sources. Solar panels and wind turbines are commonly used as they rely mostly on natural weather conditions and are not as invasive to the environment as other sources of energy. This is why a zero energy building is sometimes called a green building. When designing a zero energy building, it is important to minimize energy consumption as much as possible. A zero energy building commonly utilizes energy efficient fixtures, appliances, and design. These reduce the

energy required from the generators. Weather conditions may not always allow the building's generators to produce sufficient energy. In such instances, the building may acquire the extra energy it needs from the power grid. There are several advantages in a zero energy building. Using renewable energy reduces carbon emissions from fossil fuels. A green building may increase market value for environment conscious homeowners. Independence from the electrical grid also saves the owners from fluctuating energy costs. On average, a zero energy building costs more than a conventional building of the same size. Some people argue that the accumulated energy bill will eventually outweigh the high initial cost of the building, however. Improvements in solar cell and turbine technology may also save on future building costs. Some communities assemble a cluster of zero energy houses. They form a de facto electrical grid that shares the energy, heating, and other energy functions. The proximity of the houses reduces transmission and distribution losses and minimizes the cost of constructing the generators. Localities that have no established electrical infrastructure often make use of this arrangement to create a stable energy source. In 2000, a German architectural firm built the first triple zero energy house. The house is able to generate more energy than it consumes, which it can store or transfer to an electric grid. In addition, the house has zero net carbon emissions. The final zero comes from the building materials; only recyclable materials were used during construction.

What Are LEED Credits?

Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) credits are a series of qualifications that were devised to rate the effectiveness of green building. The voluntary certification program was developed by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) in order to provide guidelines for environmentally friendly building to property and building owners. There are LEED credits for new construction, cores and shells, commercial interiors, schools, and the operations and maintenance of existing buildings. Each entity is evaluated in the categories of building efficiency, energy savings, environmental impact, emissions, and sensitivity to the surrounding environment. The categories for LEED credits are organized into six sub-categories, including: sustainable sites, water efficiency, energy and atmosphere, materials and resources, innovation and design process, and indoor environmental quality. Entities are evaluated by representatives of the independent Green Building Certification Institute. According to adherence to the guidelines in each category and the underlying subcategories, LEED credits are assigned for each item under review. These credits are then combined to arrive at a number score for the entity. The criteria for sustainable sites includes evaluation of the design of the building, including storm water runoff, the temporary and long term effect of construction on the environment, and how many services are available for tenants seeking to use alternative transportation. Water efficiency criteria include landscaping, whether or not the project allows for water conservation of at least 20%, and how wastewater is managed. The energy and atmosphere category also includes evaluation of energy savings in addition to the overall efficiency of the project and the use of green power when possible.

Materials and resources are evaluated for the use of rapidly renewable and regional materials, certified wood, and recycled content. There are also criteria for the projects capacity to recycle waste from both the construction and long-term operations. Indoor environmental quality is also evaluated, from ventilation, lighting, and thermal comfort to low-emitting materials and fixtures. The LEED credits are given according to a 100 point scale. There are also additional bonus points available in increments of 10, primarily for special regional considerations. For the entity to receive certification, it must receive at least 26 points. There are several levels of certification, the attainment of which depends on the number of LEED credits given. The basic certification level is from 26 to 32 points. In order to achieve the middle levels silver and gold the entity must receive 33 to 38 and 39 to 51 points respectively. The top level is platinum which requires a minimum of 52 points.

How Do I Become a LEED Accredited Professional?

The Land Environment Economics and Development (LEED) credentialing program allows designers, builders and other professionals the opportunity to prove that they are current in knowledge about green building and the LEED rating system. To become a LEED Accredited Professional (AP), you must meet certain requirements, such as having experience working on green projects or in sustainability. You also must pass the appropriate tests. When you first decide to become a LEED Accredited Professional, you must determine which level of accreditation you would like to pursue. The LEED credentials that were available as of November 2010 were those of LEED Green Associate, LEED AP Homes, LEED AP Interior Design + Construction, LEED AP Building Design + Construction, LEED AP Operations + Maintenance and LEED AP Neighborhood Development. All of the designations require that candidates possess experience in green building or sustainability. This experience can be had on LEED-accredited projects or through professional development as well as through a course of accredited educational programs. To become a LEED Accredited Professional, taking an exam is also necessary. For instance, to attain certain LEED AP statuses, you must take the LEED for Homes Green Rater exam. This exam requires you to participate in training beforehand, including a series of self-guided, online modules and a two-day classroom workshop. To become a LEED Accredited Professional at the LEED Green Associate level, for instance, only one part of this exam is necessary, compared with two for the LEED AP designation. The test consists of 80 questions that cover most every aspect of the LEED rating system, including the five main topic areas of green building and sustainability: indoor air quality, materials and resources, energy and atmosphere, sustainable sites and water efficiency. You must score 170 or above on the required section of this exam to become a LEED Accredited Professional. If you pass, you will then be notified of your success and will be able to begin using your LEED credentials. If you fail, LEED permits you to register for exams two more times while your application to become a LEED Accredited professional is still active. You also can submit an appeal to the United States Green Building Council (USGBC), the organization that oversees the entire LEED certification process. This appeal process, however, is worthwhile only if you believe that certain questions were technically inaccurate.

What Does a LEED Accredited Professional Do?

To standardize environmentally sustainable building development, the United States Green Building Council created Leadership for Energy and Environmental Design, or LEED. This resulted in diverse job opportunities for people with LEED accreditation, including jobs in the building industry, the real estate profession, and many more. Jobs that may require LEED certification might be in the fields of finance, healthcare, and consulting firms. LEED generally is internationally recognized, and therefore LEED accredited professionals are needed globally. Job requirements vary, depending on the base job. A LEED certification generally adds to another job. For instance, an architect's job is enhanced with the certification, but usually not reliant upon it. If a person is searching for a job and is a LEED accredited professional, he or she may explore the possibilities within his or her field of expertise. Many professions requiring a LEED accreditation are consulting jobs. A LEED accredited professional may be a technical resource for the company's customers and inform them on energy and operating efficiency, help the company comply with LEED standards, and more. The LEED program has a system of six standards, and a consultant usually strives to help the client reach as many of these as possible. A LEED implementation manager may oversee projects, process information, and/or write informative pamphlets and other publications. The job often requires a person to balance the LEED program with the needs of the company. Usually a LEED accredited professional works within several departments in a company to ensure that all areas of the business incorporate LEED standards. Sometimes this involves coordinating business divisions in more than one country or region. The architectural profession generally is one of the largest areas of employment for accredited professionals. In this industry, a LEED accredited professional may work with building designs, new construction, or existing buildings. The certified worker might coordinate a national, regional, and/or local project. This may involve a government or public project, an industrial or business venture, or a private one. In the realty profession, a LEED accredited professional might need to help building owners and managers to achieve LEED standards. This may involve setting up and maintaining an indoor quality program for existing buildings. These buildings may include retail or residential rental units. Many job titles do not indicate that the job is for a LEED accredited professional. For example, neither the titles director of engineering nor A/V consultant reference LEED accreditation, but accreditation may be a requirement for either job. A LEED accredited job hunter may need to research his or her career field thoroughly to find an appropriate job. Although most positions are in the private sector, several government jobs require LEED accreditation. For example, an environmental program administrator may be a city employee responsible for implementing government policies, achieving cost savings through LEED standards, and enforcing environmental strategies. He or she may need to balance economical, social, and environmental considerations while remaining true to the LEED standards. Other government jobs may involve neighborhood or community planning.

How Do I Become a Green Architect?

The 21st centurys focus on environmental design, sustainability, and green living has fostered interest in the emerging field of green architecture and sustainable design. There are several paths you can take to become a green architect, depending on the time and resources you can afford to devote to that goal. You can obtain a bachelors degree in environmental architecture; you can obtain a graduate degree in environmental architecture; or, if you are already an established architect, you can become a certified Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) professional. All three of these methods alone, or a combination thereof, will help you become a green architect. If you are seeking a degree in architecture, you might want to research programs that offer a special focus on environmental architecture. For example, Yale University offers a joint Master of Architecture and Master of Environmental Management program that is specifically designed to help you become a green architect. Some bachelors degree programs combine those specialties: the Massachusetts College of Art and Design offers a Bachelor of Science degree in environmental design and architecture, and North Carolina State University, St. Johns International University in Italy, and many others offer bachelor degrees in environmental architecture or design. Contact your local college or universitys architecture program and ask if they offer a combination degree for architecture and environmental studies. If they dont offer a degree that specifically meets your needs, you may be able to work with them to design your own curriculum through a combination of your major in architecture and a minor, certifications, and electoral coursework in environmental management and design. Be aware that some colleges and universities offer four-year pre-professional environmental architecture degrees that will help you become a green architect, but to qualify for the Architecture Registration Examination, you must have completed a five-year bachelors program or masters program. If your degree is a pre-professional program, you may need to take an additional year of architectural courses to ensure you qualify for the exam. Instead of taking that extra year of coursework, you can also earn your masters degree after your pre-professional degree, as that will also help you qualify for the exam. An established professional who wants to become a green architect should consider becoming certified with the LEED program. The Green Building Certification Institute (GBCI) took over management of the LEED credentialing program from the US Green Building Council in 2009, and many professionals strive to add LEED certification to their credentials. GBCI uses LEED as a measurement tool and rating system to assess green buildings in the United States and Canada. LEED certification requires you to take an exam that tests your knowledge of the LEED rating system and of environmental building issues. There are three levels of certification LEED Green Associate, LEED AP, and LEED Fellow and to qualify for each stage of certification, you must fulfill different requirements. Consult the GBCIs website for details on those requirements.

What Are the Different Types of Careers in Sustainable Energy?

According to many business experts, careers in sustainable energy are poised to grow tremendously throughout the 21st century. While many sustainable energy jobs require special training and education, they are available in many different fields, from software development to construction. Some of the many different types of

careers in sustainable energy include scientific research and development, environmental analysis and consulting, and green construction. Jobs in administration and maintenance may also be plentiful in some areas. As fossil fuel resources fall and data about climate change becomes more prevalent, the call for sustainable energy alternatives has dramatically increased. Qualified scientists are needed to help refine existing alternative energy technology, develop new methods of creating sustainable energy, and adapt energy resources to meet the growing demand. Many universities offer science-based degrees in alternative energy, which combine training in mathematics, engineering, and classical science to help prepare students for jobs in the field of energy development. Careers in sustainable energy that focus on scientific research and development may be available through alternative energy providers, laboratory corporations, and government energy departments. Environmental analysis and consulting helps existing businesses and residences determine their energy use, and adapt to appropriate energy alternatives. Careers in this field may include serving as an in-house consultant to an industrial company that must comply with new energy standards, monitoring businesses as a government agent to ensure compliance with environmental law, working with construction companies to help create green buildings, or creating plans, budgets, and timelines to help businesses switch over to alternative energy. Careers in sustainable energy consulting often require advanced scientific degrees, as well as certification from environmental agencies. Careers in sustainable energy that focus on green construction often require less formal education than scientific or consulting jobs. Professionals in this field may provide services such as the installation of solar panels, construction of wind farms and geothermal plants, and retrofitting of existing structures to use alternative energy sources. Green construction firms may also build new homes, apartment buildings, and commercial structures to run on sustainable energy. Entry-level jobs in this field may require little educational experience, while advanced jobs may require the completion of certification programs. Administrative and technical careers in sustainable energy may also be available for those with appropriate skill sets. Alternative energy companies are frequently in need of skilled administrators and office workers to manage the day-to-day business of the company. Technicians may be able to find jobs in alternative power plants, monitoring, repairing, and maintaining the equipment crucial to the operation of the plant. Some of these careers provide on-the-job training, and can be a good way to get involved with the industry while obtaining an education or starting out in the professional world.

What Is a Sustainability Consultant?

A sustainability consultant is an individual who is trained to help businesses or homeowners lower their environmental impact. These professionals help individuals calculate how much energy they use, how much is wasted, and in what ways these numbers can be lowered effectively. Consultants may also provide information on contractors and other professionals who provide sustainable living services, such as solar panel installation and organically grown food products. The career of sustainability consultant is fairly new, and there are no set guidelines or educational requirements for prospective consultants in many areas. Those wishing to enter the field may have specific knowledge of particular industries or may have an understanding of the environmental impact certain practices have on the world as a whole. It is required that consultants be knowledgeable in the areas they intend to work in.

There is speculation that eventually the sustainability consultant job title will become obsolete as businesses become more environmentally friendly in order to boost sales and attract new customers. As consumers become more involved with decreasing their environmental impact, doing business in the new way may become common practice. This does not necessarily mean that consultants will lose their place in many industries, but more stringent educational requirements and specialized knowledge will undoubtedly become more valuable. Those who work as sustainability consultants work primarily with business owners, but sometimes they work with homeowners who are looking to lessen their impact on the environment. It is important to work well with people and have inside knowledge of emerging trends for lowering ones carbon footprint. This is especially important for those who specialize in a particular industry. Consultants must become familiar with common ways of doing business and discover new technologies or supplies which make reducing waste easier. Lowering a companys environmental impact may include simple measures, such as doing more business virtually and allowing employees to work from home. This not only lowers carbon emissions by reducing the number of commuters on the road each workday, but it also lowers the overall energy costs by requiring less office space and electricity. Consultants should also be aware of which companies do business in environmentally-friendly ways so they can direct their clients to new suppliers or partners. Some retailers, for instance, only accept new merchandise from manufacturers who produce their goods using sustainable materials or through environmentally friendly production processes. The role of the consultant is to find these businesses and direct them to one another.

What Do Renewable Energy Companies Do?

Renewable energy companies may be involved in creating, harnessing, implementing and inventing new and sustainable energy sources to replace fossil fuels. Petroleum and coal were long the only viable sources of energy for powering homes, vehicles and businesses. However, this is no longer the case. Now there are solar power, wind energy and hydroelectricity to help take the burden off the earths nonrenewable resources as well as the atmosphere. Due to the threat of global warming and climate change, renewable energy companies have been working tirelessly to harness the energy given by natural and more sustainable sources. One such source is the sun, which gives off enough power in one second to provide electricity for every home on the planet. This amount of energy cannot be harnessed, but it is possible for a usable amount of solar power to be captured and implemented with the use of solar panels. Solar energy companies specialize in developing, designing, manufacturing and installing solar panels for use in homes and businesses. Each panel is filled with small wires that carry the energy into the building where it is used as electricity. Since the sun is always available and does not run out of energy, solar power is on the cutting edge of sustainable energy technology. Other renewable energy companies study various potential energy sources and work to develop new technology that allow them to be used. Potential energy sources include plant matter, waste materials and wind energy. Each of these may hold the potential for becoming an energy source, either through combining them with other ingredients, burning them, or breaking them down as fuel. Research companies set out to discover this hidden potential and make it a reality.

Some renewable energy companies are involved with education used to alert citizens of the dangers of climate change and other damaging effects caused by fossil fuel emissions. These men and women write books, offer public speaking services and travel to schools and universities to encourage others to use renewable energy sources. Although they may not be involved in the making and distributing of these sources (although some educators are involved with researching and providing alternative energy), their mission is equally as important to the success of renewable energys progress in the marketplace. New renewable energy companies are being created everyday. With new technology comes new opportunities in this career field. In order to fully replace the worlds dependence on fossil fuels and other environmentally toxic energy sources, it is important that each of these companies work together to promote change.

What is Urban Architecture?

Urban architecture comprises buildings made for an urban setting, specifically for large or growing cities. With nearly half of the world's population currently living in urban cities, urban architecture has become a vital and thriving field of design. Special considerations of this area of design are concerned with the practicalities of city life, including high-capacity housing and workplaces, harmony of form and function, and, more recently, energy-efficient design. High rise apartments and businesses are classic examples of urban design. In a rural or suburban setting there is no need to build a 20-story apartment complex that can house more than a thousand residents. Urban architecture provides the space and design principles to allow a lot of people to live and work in close proximity. Because of this, efficient use of space is a highly important factor in this kind of design. One new form of urban architecture gaining popularity in some cities is the concept of multi-use buildings. In the age of telecommuting, these multi-functional buildings can provide both living space and private offices for those who work from home. Combining these types of buildings with ground-level commercial enterprises, such as boutiques, restaurants, and grocery stores, allows residents to live, work, and shop all in the same building. Multi-use buildings epitomize the efficiency of space, and the proximity of necessities can allow residents more down time from the fast-paced city life. With recent publicity over the deteriorating natural resources of the planet, much of urban architecture is becoming devoted to sustainable, environmentally-friendly design and buildings. The use of recycled material as insulation, solar panels, rooftop gardens and pre-installed appliances that are energy-saving all represent innovative techniques used to make urban architecture more green. Because urban areas are typically high sources of pollution and smog, incorporating environmental advances into new buildings isn't just trendy, it can be beneficial to the health of a city's residents. Although the practicality of urban architecture is paramount, style and artistry need not be neglected. Many of the most famous structures in the world are triumphs of urban design. The Petronas Twin Towers of Kuala Lumpur, the Leaning Tower of Pisa, the Empire State Building, and the Taipei 101 are all products of urban architecture. Far from austere and impersonal, urban architecture can be beacon of innovation and artistry. This growing field of architectural design is constantly in need of new visionaries, particularly those versed in new technology that makes buildings safer and better for the environment. Many top universities offer degrees that allow students to specialize in urban development and design. With experts predicting the city population

to continue throughout the 21st century, students choosing to pursue a career in urban architecture may have a bright and busy future ahead of them.

In Architecture, What Is the IDP?

The Intern Development Program (IDP) is a program which most American architects complete before becoming certified as architects. Many nations have programs similar to the IDP for people who intend to practice architecture. The goal of the IDP is to confirm that architects have received sufficient education and on the ground experience to be able to practice architecture on their own safely and effectively. The creation of standards for people in the architecture field promotes a high level of skill, quality, and safety. Two organizations, the American Institute of Architects (AIA) and the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB), developed the Intern Development Program in the 1970s. Almost all of the regions overseen by these organizations require completion of the IDP from architecture students who wish to apply to take the licensure exam, although there are a few exceptions. People who wish to enter the IDP must demonstrate that they have completed at least three years of architecture school, and file an application to enter the IDP. They must also identify an employer and a supervisor who is in charge of monitoring the intern's work and submitting performance reports. Once in the IDP, someone can be known as an Intern Architect or Architect Intern, but not as an architect, because use of this term is limited to people who are fully qualified architects. In the IDP, students learn about the day to day practice of architecture. This experience can be very valuable, as it allows students to see real world situations and to explore a variety of problems which they would not have encountered in the school environment. As an intern's work improves and grows stronger, he or she will be allowed to be more and more independent. Upon completion of the IDP, the student may apply to sit for the architecture exam which will allow him or her to become a Registered Architect. Over the course of the IDP, a student is expected to complete a minimum of 700 training units, with each training unit corresponding to eight hours of work. Students must also satisfy requirements in a number of categories, including management, design and construction documents, and construction contact administration. The program also includes a community service requirement, which is designed to promote positive community relations for the architecture field, and to remind architects that charitable applications of their professional skills are an important part of a well-rounded life.

How do I Choose the Best Architectural College?

There are four items to consider when choosing the best architectural college: education institutions, admissions requirements, accreditation, and faculty. An architectural college is usually part of the Faculty of Architecture or may be an independent school. An architecture college can provide the training necessary to become an architect or an architect technologist. An architectural college within a university offers programs that are four years in length, resulting in an architecture degree. The graduate is then eligible to gain experience as an architect and write the architect licensing examination. This is the only path to become a professional architect. It is important to choose your education with a clear understanding of the impact on your career options.

Programs available through a community college are two years in length and provide the training necessary to become an architecture technician. A technician works under the direction of the architect, completing drawings, plans, detailed revisions, and related tasks. The length of program, intensity of the workload, and the costs are the main difference between these two educational institutions. In order to qualify for admission to architectural college, a combination of high marks in high school courses and an interview are required. The best programs often require candidates to submit a portfolio of their best work for review. Find out in advance if this is required and begin to prepare at least six months in advance. If you are looking at the best architectural college in the country or state, take note that the admissions standard is higher to reflect the increased demand. Only students with the very best combination of marks and portfolios are offered admissions. If you do not have the very best marks in your class, think about applying to schools that offer a multi-discipline program instead. When looking for an architectural college, check the accreditation status. An accredited school has been reviewed by an independent third party. Courses from an accredited school can be transferred to other postsecondary institutions. This is very important, as over 20 percent of all students transfer schools. Accredited schools are able to offer students access to government student aid programs. The best architectural colleges provide the biographies of their faculty or instructors on their websites. The information provided typically includes the academic credentials, research focus, publications, and any awards they have received. Look at the type of experience they have and the range of settings. Review their portfolio to learn more about their style and focus.

What is an Architect Studio?

Also known as an architectural studio, the architect studio is the space set aside for architects to create designs for all types of structures and the surrounding landscape. The typical architecture firm will provide each architect in their employ with some type of studio space. In some cases, a single architect will occupy the studio, which provides freedom from a number of distractions. However, there are also examples of architect studios that are designed to allow several architects to occupy the same space at the same time. The single or group architect studio is equipped with all the tools necessary to conceive and develop ideas for new building projects. Space for printed and electronic resources relevant to architectural design is one common element. Work surfaces that are slanted and equipped with direct lighting make it possible for the architect to work on detailed sketches and plans for homes, office buildings, or even the landscaping that will be created around a building. The creative efforts often involve the use of computer technology that help to create the prototypes and models for the buildings, helping the architect to move at a faster pace if his or her creative inspiration demands it. In addition to the architect studio that is found at an architectural firm, many architects also maintain a studio at home. In this setting, the studio is normally a room that is located away from the main areas of activity in the house. There are also examples of studios that are created by renovating garages or other stand alone structures that are also on the property, effectively allowing the architect to enjoy privacy when working on projects at home.

While an architect studio can be a strictly utilitarian space, it is not unusual for studios to include additional areas that are set aside for meetings with potential clients or to display examples of the architects past work. The studio may feature a conference room, complete with audiovisual equipment that makes it possible to share electronic presentations with current and prospective clients. A gallery displaying models of designs that the architect created in times past may be coupled with comfortable seating, allowing the area to provide a relaxing environment for visitors who are waiting to meet with the architect. The studio may also include space for a receptionist or assistant who handles the general clerical details while the architect focuses on the creation and design aspects of his or her work. Whether a shared space or a private work environment, the purpose of the architect studio is to allow the architect to have easy access to all the tools and support materials needed to successfully create new building designs. The organization of the space can be tailored to the specific tastes and needs of a given architect, helping to ensure the work space is conducive to getting the job done.

How Do I Become a Home Architect?

Home architects design residences of all types, from small housing complexes to huge mansions and estates. They draft the initial blueprints for a home along with detailed schematics for various systems, including plumbing, ventilation, and electrical units. A person who wants to become a home architect is usually required to obtain at least a bachelor's degree, gain several years of internship experience, and pass extensive licensing exams. In addition to the formal requirements, an individual can improve his or her chances of finding employment by developing strong communication and computer skills. The minimum educational requirement to become a home architect in many states and countries is a bachelor's degree from an accredited university. Bachelor's degree programs in architecture typically take about one year longer than most programs; full-time students can expect about five years of coursework. Students have the opportunity to learn about the history and theory of architecture in classroom lectures, as well as gain hands-on experience in specialized drafting and design courses. Experienced teachers introduce students to the fundamentals of home architecture, including the various computer aided drafting (CAD) programs commonly used in the professional world. Many people are able to find internship positions after obtaining bachelor's degrees, but some students choose to pursue additional two-year master's degree plans to further their education and improve their chances of finding work. A master's program in home architecture can better prepare an individual for the business side of the profession. Since a large number of professional architects are self-employed, an education in business principles can help prospective workers determine the best ways to find jobs and deal with clients. Graduates of accredited degree programs are required to work as assistants or interns for up to three years in most countries. During an internship, an individual who wants to become a home architect has the chance to learn about the profession firsthand from established experts in the field. Internship programs are commonly found at large architectural firms, where new workers assume a variety of responsibilities. An intern might be engaged in actual drawing and CAD design, or focus more on speaking with clients and selecting proposals. After gaining sufficient experience, an individual can take a licensing exam to officially become a home architect. The content of written licensing tests varies between different states and countries, but most exams include sections on CAD, blueprint design, ethics, and legal responsibilities. Successful test-takers are awarded

licenses and allowed to begin practicing independently. A newly licensed architect might choose to work at an established firm or try his or her hand at a private practice. A person who is able to become a home architect can secure a steady client base by exhibiting strong communication skills and business sense. There is generally a strong need and many job opportunities for architects who can create attractive, functional, and energy-efficient homes.

How Do I Become an Architect Associate?

An architect associate is a licensed architect who shares a temporary work agreement with another architect. In this instance, the main goal of this relationship is to complete a scheduled project through collaboration. In order to become an architect associate, you must first gain all the necessary skills and training to become a licensed architect. High school students who aim to become architects should focus upon math and science courses in addition to general courses. This task can be accomplished by meeting with a high school guidance counselor. Since a large portion of architecture is math-based, an excellent grasp on complicated mathematical equations is necessary. Following high school, successful graduates should apply to colleges that have strong architecture programs. There are a number of choices when it comes to selecting a college level architecture program. Some schools offer five-year bachelor's programs, while other schools may offer two-year programs. Two-year college programs are generally followed by a two-year Master of Architecture degree. Either program will help an individual to become an architect associate, though it is essential that all programs are recognized and accredited. While attending an architecture program at the college level, students should also apply for part-time jobs within architecture firms. This will help college graduates to secure a position within an architecture firm following graduation. Most firms hire recently graduated architects that already have work experience. Once a graduate passes necessary government examinations, there are certain steps that can be taken in order to become an architect associate. Often, architect associates work with other architects outside of a particular company. This type of relationship tends to be an independent one, though it is possible for one company to hire a contractual architect to work with a staff architect. If an architecture firm requires the assistance of a specialized architect, an associate architect may be retained. Therefore, the best way to become an architect associate is to find a unique niche. As with most other professions, architects that are highly sought after tend to be those that have specialized knowledge. The architecture field is extremely competitive, though those people who stand out within the field often secure well-paid positions. Therefore, specialization within this profession is crucial. Only those architects who excel within the field are chosen to become associates. Generally, to become an architect associate, one must have many years of experience as an architect. This is precisely why it is important for current architecture students to acquire internship positions while still in school. Architecture is one profession that rewards those professionals who have spent a great deal of time studying all the ins and outs of architecture.

What Is a Master of Architecture?

A Master of Architecture, or M. Arch, is a degree that is conferred onto a graduate student who has successfully completed all of the requirements that an accredited institution of higher learning requires of a students studying the field of architecture. In addition to attending lectures, students working toward this degree are usually required to complete projects independently and in teams. They may also be required to complete research projects. A Master of Architecture program may accept students who have studied architecture as undergraduates as well as students who completed their undergraduate work in other fields that may not be related to architecture. As such, students who completed undergraduate studies in engineering or design may apply for a Master of Architecture as well as students who completed undergraduate studies in English or history. In most cases, a Master of Architecture program takes two or three years to complete. This is especially true of programs that stand alone, meaning that they are not connected to an undergraduate program. There are some undergraduate architecture programs that allow students to matriculate directly into a graduate program in architecture within the same academic institution the semester after the students successfully complete their undergraduate studies. Some of these programs only require an extra year of study for students to complete a Master of Architecture program. There are some condensed Master of Architecture programs that allow students to complete all of the required coursework in 12 months of intensive study. Students working to complete a Master of Architecture will be required to study a number of topics related to architecture. They are likely to study examples of architecture that range from antiquity through to the modern period. They will likely also study buildings that are presently in the process of construction or have recently been completed, especially if these buildings represent the application of new architectural ideas, methods, design aesthetics, or technology. There are many graduate degrees that require a course load that can be managed by people who are holding down part-time or even full-time jobs. In most cases, a Master of Architecture is not this way. Graduate students of architecture often spend long hours studying and working in studios to complete assignments and projects. Many students in these programs focus all of their efforts on their studies and do not maintain any kind of job during the semester.

How Do I Earn an Architecture PhD?

Many universities around the world offer graduate programs in architectural studies. Out of these institutions, several grant PhDs or Doctorates of Philosophy in architecture. As with most PhD programs in other disciplines, the length of time necessary to earn a doctorate in architecture is variable, but typically in the range of four to six years. Those wishing to earn an architecture PhD must first earn a bachelor's degree in a related field, and some schools may require candidates to earn a master's degree as well prior to applying to a PhD program. The process of obtaining an Architecture PhD first begins with the application and admission to an institution of higher education offering graduate programs in Architecture. For highly-ranked programs, admissions rates can be as low as 3%. Therefore, it is important for a person to have a strong resume, proving that he or she is a competitive applicant, both academically and in terms of relevant skills and work experience. The best way to prepare academically for the majority of graduate programs in Architecture is by first earning an undergraduate degree in Architecture or some related field, such as civil engineering.

When applying to Architecture PhD programs, it is important to note that many schools do not simply grant PhDs in general Architectural studies, but require candidates to choose more specific fields. For example, some programs may be subdivided into two different tracks: History of Architecture and Urban Development, and City and Regional Planning, for example. Other post-professional Architecture PhD programs may be separated into concentrations such as Urban Design, Cultural Meditations and Technology, and History of Architecture. The number of years or semesters spent pursuing an Architecture PhD depends on several factors. Some of these determinants may include the specific curriculum of the school and classroom credit requirements. Other considerations include the number of hours spent in apprenticeship or gaining field experience throughout the program and the individuals own motivation and success in completing his or her thesis project. Prior to accepting an admissions offer from a PhD program in Architecture or even applying to such a program one should consider the advantages, disadvantages, and alternatives to post-graduate work in Architecture. For instance, though people often pursue additional degrees in order to have access to higherpaying jobs, in the field of Architecture, a specialized undergraduate degree in the subject, coupled with work experience, has typically been shown to be one of the best way to get jobs as an Architect. This is because most PhD programs in Architecture focus on the more theoretical aspects of the subjects, rather than on the development of more practical skills and experience that are most useful in the work force. Instead of applying to PhD programs in Architecture, it is not unusual for graduates of bachelors programs in Architecture to pursue post-graduate programs in related fields, such as Civil Engineering. Lastly, one must consider the monetary cost of attending an institution of higher education in pursuit of a PhD. Though many schools grant financial aid and stipends to their PhD candidates, this is not necessarily guaranteed at all schools for people of all financial backgrounds.

How Do I Choose the Best Postgraduate Architecture Program?

When choosing the best postgraduate architecture program, it is important to consider the accreditation of the school. Other important considerations include the technology used in the coursework and the program's method of keeping up to date with the changing industry upgrades. The ranking of the school or program among other postgraduate architecture programs may be a factor for some candidates. Knowing the prerequisites required will help with academic planning. Potential scholarships offered by the program may also be important for those considering these programs. To ensure the best education, the postgraduate architecture program should be accredited by a recognized accrediting institution, such as the National Architectural Accrediting Board in the US or the Canadian Architectural Certification Board. Accreditation boards review programs and give accreditation to those institutions that meet the quality standards of the architecture industry. Most state registration boards or industry associations in the US require that members graduate from an accredited program. The technology in the architectural industry changes fairly quickly, and it is important to seek a program that is able to keep up with these changes. Some of the most cutting edge programs include the best technology in computerized programs for architecture. There are many different types of architecture programs that focus on different areas and may utilize certain technology. It is wise to choose a program whose focus and technology is aligned with the specific type of future job expectations one has.

Many architecture firms only accept employees who have completed their postgraduate architecture training in one of the highest ranking programs. There are non-profit organizations or boards that govern the architecture industry and the training institutions. In the US, the National Council of Architecture Registration Boards (NCARB) offers a ranking system for architecture training institutions. There are similar international organizations who rank each learning institution. Knowing what prerequisites are required in each program will help determine if a student is prepared for the coursework in the postgraduate architecture program. If requirements have not been met, the student may need to rework his or her academic plan. Beginning the search for a postgraduate program prior to completing undergraduate coursework can help students to ensure that they can complete the required courses before graduating. Postgraduate school can be expensive, and scholarships are a great way of easing the cost. It can be beneficial to inquire with each school regarding the types of scholarships offered. Some scholarships are not publicized, resulting in fewer competitors. Many institutions offer full and partial scholarships, but students should be mindful of application deadlines, as some may be early in the year.

How Do I Choose the Best Architecture Distance Learning Program?

An architecture distance learning course will allow you to obtain an architecture degree without actually attending an on-site location, thereby broadening your options for the best quality education. To choose the best architecture distance learning course, start by choosing programs that cover the topics of architecture in which you are interested. If you are interested in a certain type of architecture, research the best programs specific to those areas. Eliminate non-accredited institutions as possibilities, as they may become a liability after the degree is completed and you are searching for a job. Consider your budget and research financial aid options before settling on an architecture distance learning program for you. Architecture coursework will require that you have or can obtain certain computer programs. Be sure you either have the programs required for the degree program or have some way of obtaining them. Find out if the architecture distance learning program can get you the programs for free or for a reduced fee. Make sure the programs are using up-to-date software and programs both for the architecture-specific applications as well as for the day to day classwork. This includes the way classes are conducted: many classes are conducted via online message boards exclusively, while others may include streaming media such as audio and video, mp3 downloads, podcasts, and interactive websites. The best architecture distance learning programs will utilize current technologies to make communication with instructors quick and easy. Non-accredited institutions should be eliminated from consideration as your architecture distance learning provider. Accreditation is the process of evaluation done by an independent agency; the agency will grant accreditation if the institution has demonstrated its ability to deliver instruction that is high quality, and its ability to grant degrees that are respected and valued by employers and other educational institutions. Attending a non-accredited institution could eliminate your eligibility for certain types of financial aid, and it may make transferring earned credits to other institutions more difficult. Some architecture distance learning programs may require you to do on-site work, either at the institution itself or at other job sites. Be sure to find out what the requirements are for each program you are considering, and keep in mind that it may be difficult or impossible to avoid on-site work at some point. Many distance learning

institutions make accommodations for people who are far away from the institution itself, and it may be possible to set up on-site job training or instruction at a location closer to you.

How Do I Earn an Urban Planning PhD?

Urban planners are responsible for developing plans pertaining to construction of new buildings in order to meet the specific needs of the population of a city or town. They are experts when it comes to zoning, environmental rules, and building code rules. Also, they are involved in controlling pollution, conservation efforts, or drafting legislation related to the planning of buildings or landmarks. Often, individuals who hope to become urban planners will seek the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree because having a graduate degree makes it more likely they will be considered for employment. Granted, getting an urban planning PhD requires several years of work. Completing an undergraduate degree with a focus in urban planning can be useful if you aspire to eventually get the urban planning PhD. Of course, not all universities offer an undergraduate major in urban planning. If there is no available urban planning undergraduate major at your university, then majoring in economics, political science, geography, or perhaps environmental design can be helpful. After completion of an undergraduate degree, you can pursue a Master of Science (MS) degree that focuses on urban planning or public affairs. Also, you can work in an urban planning job for a few years after the masters degree. Working after the masters degree can be valuable for you because it will enable you to gain real-world experience while also enabling you to build your portfolio. These samples of your work can be shown to prospective doctoral programs when it is time to apply to an urban planning PhD program. Application to an urban planning PhD program will require that you gather materials such as your college transcripts, Graduate Records Examination (GRE) scores, recommendation letters from professors and former employers, and samples of your urban planning work. Also, you will need to fill out an application for each school you apply to. Typically required with each application is a purpose statement which highlights your reasons for applying to the doctoral program along with your research interests and professional goals both short term and long term. If you want to pursue an urban planning PhD, you will need to become very comfortable with using computers. Urban planning professionals often use computers for recording information and data analysis. For example, urban planners often use computers to analyze information, map areas of land, do forecasting, prepare reports, and make recommendations. Once accepted to an urban planning PhD program, you will have to successfully complete the required courses, which could include courses such as urban theory, urban planning history, and quantitative analysis as it applies to urban planning. Also, you will be required to complete various research projects, possibly a teaching assistantship, an internship, comprehensive written and oral exams, and a final dissertation done under the supervision of a dissertation chairperson or faculty mentor and other committee members. If you can successfully complete these requirements, you will achieve a PhD in urban planning.

How Do I Choose the Best Architect Companies?

You can find the best architect companies for your next project by shopping around and asking welll-chosen questions. Odds are, you have a multitude of choices. This can lead to confusion and hesitance when it comes

time to make a decision, but if you take your time and consider each option carefully you will have no trouble making the right choice. Start by calling several local architect companies and speaking with the person you would be working with. If more than one architect works at a firm, speak with several of them to get a good feel for each person. Make appointments to go over your plans, and be prepared to ask a lot of questions. Make a list if necessary to help you remember what you want to find out. Questions can include experience level, former clients, price ranges and turnaround times. Also ask for pictures of buildings they have designed to get an idea of the quality of work you can expect. After you have talked with various architect companies and narrowed down your options, its time to go around and view live samples of each firm's work, including blueprints. Especially important is the opportunity to take a live tour of one of the buildings the architect has designed. By doing this, you can actually see the way a project has come together. Consider speaking with local construction crews who handle cases like yours. Ask about architects who they have worked with and get any information you can about each one. They will likely give you legitimate information, and are more likely to refer you to an architect that is well respected in your area. It is also a good idea to speak with the owner of a building you find particularly interesting or appealing. Ask about the architect who designed it, and figure out which of the architect companies he works for. You can also ask questions about working with that company and get a better feel for the overall experience of dealing with them. Once you have narrowed down the options to only one or two architect companies, sit down with each potential firm and discuss your own project in great detail. Ask if you could see some rough sketches representing what they might do for you, and find out how flexible the designs are. By having them do a little bit of work ahead of time, you can get a closer look at what it might be like working with them long term. If the architect youve chosen seems unyielding or overly attached to his own design work, move on to someone more flexible and accommodating.

What Does an Architect Technician Do?

A professional architect technician uses technology to design, plan, build, and inspect building projects. He or she is responsible for developing new projects in collaboration with other technicians and people in the construction field. Architectural technicians must also stay up-to-date with new technology. As technological advances are continually developed, people proficient in relevant industrial areas are needed in the construction field. In addition to organizing and planning new building projects, architectural technicians are often needed when a city wants a dangerous building upgraded. When companies or individuals require a building remodeled, technicians in this field are often usually necessary as well. An architect technician can expect to utilize a wide variety of skills. They should be well versed in architectural design, building regulatory requirements in their area, and applying technology to construction in general. A technician must be able to collect, collate, and organize technical information.

During a project, an architect technician will often be responsible for making decisions regarding home or business owner needs. These may include building surveys, development factors relative to an area, risk assessment, site surveys, and technical information the user should be aware of. Design safety and building inspections are usually at the heart of an architecture technician's job. His or her plans are often integral in building a strong structure and securing its safety. User health and safety is also key in building development. People look to architectural technicians for new innovative solutions to building problems and challenges. Technicians may incorporate computer aided drafting, or CAD, programs to foster the most ideal solutions. Traditional methods of architecture, such as drawings, are also employed. An architect technician may also be responsible in securing and managing a contract. Some other professionals that an architect technician may work with include engineers, surveyors, building inspectors, architects, and other technicians. Most architect technicians do not work alone. Instead, they are considered a vital part of an architectural team. Architect technicians are credited with providing the middle ground between construction workers and architects. Regular visits to a building site are typical job tasks. Technicians may also anticipate working with hazardous materials, including asbestos. They should expect to work with heights, ladders, and potentially dangerous equipment. In a professional capacity, they also may be expected to attend meetings, prepare documents and presentations, and help secure the funds for building projects. Travel is often an aspect of the position as well.

What Is Architectural Engineering?

Architectural engineering is the branch of engineering concerned with the application of engineering principles to the design and construction of buildings and other structures. In architectural engineering, the focus is on the systems used to construct new buildings or restore older ones. These systems include the building structure itself, the lighting, sound, and electrical systems, and the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems. Other engineering systems include the plumbing structure, fire safety systems, and energy conservation. Architectural engineers are responsible for coordinating these systems and making sure they are designed and built properly, safely, and economically. The field of architectural engineering is a collaborative one. Architectural engineers work closely with architects and other engineers to design and construct buildings that reflect the architect's artistic vision. Architects generally focus on the aesthetics and functionality of a building project. In contrast, architectural engineers troubleshoot preliminary designs from a technical standpoint and solve problems that arise before and during construction. In the case of a tall office building, for example, an architectural engineer might make recommendations about what materials to use based on their ability to withstand high winds or heavy snowfall. Architectural engineering is a unique discipline within the broader engineering framework. A bachelor's degree from an accredited engineering program is needed to get a job as an architectural engineer. Most engineering programs take four years to complete, though some take five years. Course work during the first two years is varied, with students taking humanities classes in addition to courses in math, basic sciences, introductory engineering, and computers. During the final years of an engineering program, students take mostly engineering courses, usually with a concentration in one branch of engineering. To concentrate in architectural engineering, students take courses to prepare them to work as professionals in the field. These include courses in design, structural engineering, electrical engineering, thermodynamics, and

construction management. Students also study architectural history from a design viewpoint. Architectural engineers use their knowledge of math, physics, and engineering to make sure building projects are structurally and functionally sound. Job opportunities in the field of architectural engineering are varied. Many architectural engineers work as consultants in the construction industry, usually in an office-based setting. Their work also includes visits to construction sites, often in different locations. Some architectural engineers choose to focus on specific engineering challenges, such as construction in earthquake zones or energy efficient construction. Many architectural engineers eventually choose to work for themselves by starting their own consulting companies.

What Is Structural Analysis Engineering?

Structural analysis engineering is a type of engineering that deals primarily with the design and analysis of various structures that must support or resist loads. This type of engineering is typically utilized when constructing large or unusually shaped buildings, but may also be used for other structures such as ships, bridges, pipelines, aircraft and industrial manufacturing plants. Structural analysis engineering is usually required to ensure that a structure will be able to endure certain weight loads, climate changes, or natural disasters. The field of structural analysis engineering is generally divided into three separate categories: civil, architectural, and mechanical. Structural analysis engineering theory is generally based upon known physical laws as well as experiential knowledge of the past performance of various types of structural materials. This type of engineering typically uses only a few basic elements in order to build up a very complex structural system. The basic elements that make up most structures include columns, arches, beams, and shells as well as plates and cables. These elements are also classified as being either curved or straight, and one or two-dimensional. The field of structural analysis engineering first began to be recognized during the industrial revolution of the late 19th century. Prior to that time, an architect and a structural analysis engineer were essentially the same position, known as a master builder. As the knowledge of certain structural theories began to increase during this period, the need arose for a type of civil engineer who specialized in structural analysis. Today, the complexity of most modern structures requires a great deal of creativity from a structural standpoint to ensure that these structures are able to support and resist the loads to which they are subjected. Civil engineering structures requiring structural analysis engineering typically include dams, bridges, pipelines and offshore structures. These structures are often subjected to extreme forces caused by wide temperature variations and dynamic loads from waves or traffic. They are sometimes constructed in highly corrosive environments at sea and underground. Architectural engineering structures, such as warehouses, domes and skyscrapers, are often very complex and require a team of structural analysis engineers in order to complete their design and construction. These engineers must make allowances for such forces as wind, snow, rain, fire and earthquakes when designing a structure. In addition to maintaining structural integrity, necessary building services such as heating, air conditioning, communications, and lighting must be taken into account in the overall design. The basic principals of structural analysis engineering are frequently applied in the construction of certain types of mechanical structures as well. Mechanical structures requiring this type of engineering typically include ships, aircraft, railroad cars, elevators, and cranes. Mechanical structures such as ships and aircraft are

often subjected to extreme forces that are likely to occur repeatedly during the lifetime of their service. When designing this type of structure, an engineer must make sure that it will be able to endure these stresses over a long period of time.

What Is Structural Software?

Structural software is software used to prototype and analyze architectural designs. Also referred to as structural engineering software or civil engineering software, it is employed mostly by civil engineers. These engineers require a high level of data analysis and digital dimensional manipulation to meet their professional objectives. In the real world, civil engineers and structural engineers design with components such as beams, joists, footings and rafters. Structural software gives them an opportunity to visualize these components on screen. Many of these programs require that the engineer know what type of loads are weighing down on the component and precisely what sort of component it is. These components can then be viewed and manipulated in the software's design module. Components can also be drawn by the engineer using the software. Most structural software programs offer a way to create different elements from scratch. Usually, set figures such as lines, polygons, and boxes are provided for this purpose. An important part of many of these programs is the calculation, or structural analysis, module. This module calculates data specific to a wide range of building elements. From a mock up of a concrete slender wall to one of a steel beam with torsional loads, this part of the software is able to replicate the design of such elements and provide mathematical analysis specific to any one element. Any reliable piece of structural software will offer database and spreadsheet features so that the structural engineer or the civil engineer can more clearly research the type of elements being used in a design at any given time. These databases track a variety of measurements specific to a component. For instance, if an engineer needs a rolled steel section for a design, that engineer can refer to the software's database which gives the weight, area, depth, and many other specifications of numerous rolled steel sections. Custom databases and spreadsheets can be made according to the engineer's needs. Structural engineering combines creativity and hard mathematical data. For this reason, it is important that this type of software provides a way for the engineer to create specialized databases that pull all the components of a particular project into one spreadsheet. In addition to structural analysis, structural software also performs other critical functions for engineers. Reporting features allow users to gather data. Detailed graphics and diagrams are provided for presentation purposes. Color coding may also be available to differentiate groups of data. Some types of structural software provide animation, allowing for a more dynamic and three dimensional presentation.

What Is a Load Diagram?

A load diagram is a detailed representation of the loads on a structure, calculated for structural engineering purposes. Engineers and architects create such diagrams in the process of developing plans for a new building to make sure that the building is engineered to address the strain to which it will be subjected with the weight

of the components and contents. In some regions, a copy of this diagram must be submitted along with other supporting details in permit applications and the documentation that accompanies the construction project. The copy demonstrates that the calculations were performed. Many types of strain can occur along the height, width and breadth of a building, including bending and shearing forces. In the load diagram, the engineer should be able to show the distribution of loads in the building, using known information about the construction and how the building will be used. The engineer can point out what kinds of loads will be present and might map out their intensity. If the load diagram reveals a hot spot where forces are particularly high, the building might need special engineering to address it, or it might be necessary to change the building design slightly to redistribute the loads more appropriately. With innovative new design, particularly projects that have large amounts of open space and interesting new materials, the load diagram is very important, because the engineer might not have a similar existing building to use as a model. This is part of the structural analysis performed to make sure that a building will remain stable while in use. In addition to thinking about the loads that are intrinsic to the building, engineers might also have to consider earthquakes, storms and other factors that could add stress to a building. A load diagram should be able to show how the building will maintain its integrity in the event of a situation such as an earthquake, by absorbing and distributing the stress rather than crumpling or cracking under the strain. Computer-aided design (CAD) programs can calculate a load diagram using known parameters that are inserted by an engineer. There also are engineering programs that can perform similar tasks. Using a computer might help ensure the accuracy and detail of the calculations, or an engineer can check manual math with the assistance of the computer program. Errors in a load diagram can be a significant issue, because they might lead to situations such as under-engineering in the belief that a building is perfectly stable and does not need additional supporting trusses and other structural elements.

What Is Beam Analysis?

Beams are used all around us in many mechanical and structural engineering applications. They are commonly used to create a foundation or internal support for a larger structure, such as a building or a bridge. Beam analysis is a technique used to adequately design beams to withstand forces and stress while minimizing beam weight, space requirements, and material cost. Incorrectly designed beams can prematurely fail and have catastrophic effects. Beam analysis requires a combination of mechanical engineering, design principles, and material properties. The process typically involves factors including the types of forces that will be applied, the span between supports, the beam shape, the material, and the design of the joints to allow one beam to be mechanically connected to other structural members. Different types of beam designs are based on the loading and mounting configurations. For example, cantilevered beams are supported at one end only and require a different design than simple beams, which are supported at both ends. Beams can be constructed using a single material, such as carbon steel. They can also be constructed as a composite or laminated structure consisting of varying numbers of different layers of materials. The construction of a beam will influence its bending and deflection while under load. The deflection of a beam

depends on its length, how it is supported, its cross-sectional shape, the material, and where the deflecting force is applied. Beam analysis will determine the amount of bending and deflection. Until recently, manual methods using force diagrams and a series of complex mathematical equations were necessary for beam analysis. Today, this procedure is usually completed using engineering software that is designed to accept input data and determine a beam design to meet the performance criteria. These programs complete a mathematical analysis of the beam stresses and deflection, and also create diagrams showing stress distributions within the beam under various loading conditions. Beam analysis software uses a computational method known as Finite Element Analysis (FEA). An important consideration in beam analysis is the margin of safety or safety factor. Most beams have a safety factor that serves to oversize the beam in the event of loading or other factors that cannot be predicted in the design of the beam. An excessive safety factor will drive a beam design that is larger than necessary, causing possible weight problems and higher fabrication costs. Beam analysis software can analyze different beam shapes and materials, to allow the user to assess options and select a final beam design that optimizes the ratio between cost and functionality.

What Is Beam Software?

Beam software is engineering software for structural engineers that provides them with information on beam performance in hypothetical conditions. They can use the software in the process of designing a structure to develop appropriate technical specifications. It can also be useful during construction to check work and confirm that beams will meet the needs of the given conditions. In the event changes need to be made, software can be critically important for performing calculations to make sure they are done right. Numerous companies manufacture beam software or include beam modules in their structural engineering software. The sophistication level can be highly variable. Some products offer a number of features and can perform a variety of calculations while others are more simplistic. More extensive software tends to be more costly, due to the increased development costs. Engineering firms that order custom software will pay even more, as the product is designed just for them. It is also possible to use beam software online. Some companies have free services available for quick calculations while others may have a pay wall that only allows access to subscribers. Free beam software can be useful for contractors and homeowners who want to double check their math or explore some scenarios with a construction project. Some home improvement stores install beam software and other design tools in consoles around their facilities to allow customers to check on math, explore different configurations for a project, and select the right products for their needs. In the software program, the user enters the known specifications of the project. She can specify the shape of the beam, size, and materials used. In addition, she can discuss the overall projected weight of the structure and the conditions where it will be used. Beam requirements for a bridge, for instance, will be different than those for a private home. The software can evaluate the beam in terms of general performance as well as adherence to the building code and other guidelines. The software can perform some calculations to determine how the beam will respond to bending, shearing, and compressive forces. Structural engineers want their beams elastic enough to rebound slightly under pressure instead of immediately failing. They do not, however, want beams that are so flexible they cannot support

weight, easily bending or compressing in adverse conditions. Beam design requires striking a balance between these two needs. Beam software can help engineers play with different constraints and variables to determine the best beam for a given project.

What Is Beam Calculation?

Beam calculation is the measurement of the stress and deflection of a structural beam when a given load is applied to it. Many factors contribute to a beams capacity to resist bending, such as characteristics of the beam, the load and the supports. Calculating the load displacement of a single beam using the Euler-Bernoulli beam equation is straightforward, but in most practical applications, beam software is used. Beam calculations are used to ensure safety and avoid overbuilding in a variety of disciplines such as construction and aeronautics. It is necessary to calculate beam load capacity in order to construct structures with the lightest and most inexpensive materials while fulfilling safety requirements and maintaining the structures aesthetic quality. The entire discipline of structural engineering is devoted to this analysis and design, ensuring that roofs do not collapse under the weight of snow, that underground parking garages are safe when traffic drives overhead and that skyscrapers built along fault lines meet earthquake safety requirements. Beam calculation also has its applications in mechanical engineering, when testing the load resistance of individual parts of a machine, such as the load that an airplane wing can withstand before developing potentially dangerous stresses. Finally, architects must consider beam deformation when building and renovating houses with post and beam construction and when considering the visual impact of sagging floors, roofs and balconies. One of the most important factors when calculating a beams load bearing capacity is the choice of materials. Typically, beams are made out of wood, steel, reinforced concrete or aluminum. Each material has a different tendency to deform elastically, called the modulus of elasticity, which refers to the materials ability to spring back into place. At its yield point, the material will deform plastically, maintaining the deformation after the applied force is removed. The cross-sectional shape of the beam is the second characteristic that is considered in beam calculation. Beams might be rectangular, round or hollow, as well as having many types of flanking, such as I-beams, Zbeams or T-beams. Each shape has a different moment of inertia, otherwise known as second moment of area, which predicts a beams stiffness. The force per unit length is another parameter used in beam calculation, and it is dependent on the load type. Dead loads simply are the weight of the structure, and imposed or live loads are the forces that the structure will be exposed to intermittently, such as snow, traffic or wind. Most loads are static, but particular attention must be paid to dynamic loads, earthquakes, waves and hurricanes, which repetitively apply force for an extended duration. A load might be distributed, typically uniformly or asymmetrically, such as snowfall or a pile of dirt. It also might be concentrated at a point, centrally or at various intervals. The boundary conditions for beam calculation depend on the beam support type. A beam might simply be supported on both ends, like a floor joist between two load bearing walls. It might be cantilevered, or supported on one end, like a balcony or airplane wing. The boundary conditions apply to all points along the beam's length.

The relationship between a beams deflection and a static load is described by the Euler-Bernoulli beam equation. Another equation, the Euler-Lagrange beam equation, describes this relationship for a dynamic load, but because of the complexity of its application, static approximations typically are used. The deflection, bending moments and shear force of a beam given an applied load can be derived. In a practical setting, load charts are used to summarize this information, and they list common materials that fulfill the safety requirements for a known load. For more complicated applications, beam calculators are readily available on company websites and as add-ons for computer aided design (CAD) software.

What Is a Floor Beam?

A floor beam is a large beam, typically steel, that spans the width of a house at the center and gives support to the floor joists. The floor beam is commonly used in houses that have a basement. The beam is usually supported along its length with adjustable jacks that rest on cement footings and are adjusted upward to secure the floor beam and prevent it from sagging. With the advent of the manufactured particle board beam, some builders choose to forgo the steel beam for the manufactured wood product. One advantage in using the steel beam is that it is less prone to twisting and bowing than a similarly-sized wooden beam. The open space of a basement forces the builder to take steps to prevent the sagging of a floor as the joists span the opening with no support. With all of the materials used by builders to prevent this from happening, nothing is as successful in supporting a floor as a floor beam. Commonly fashioned from a steel "I" beam, the floor beam rests in notches built into the house's foundation on each end. The length of the beam will dictate how many floor jacks will be required to give support across the length of the beam. The floor beam itself is commonly hidden by the ceiling tiles of a finished basement, while the jacks are usually boxed in and blended into the surrounding area by use of paint, paneling or wallpaper. In an unfinished basement, the beam and jacks are typically left exposed. When using a steel floor beam, some builders apply a bead of epoxy or strong glue under the floor joists to prevent them from sliding on the steel surface. On a wooden beam, the joists are commonly nailed to the beam to prevent squeaks and slippage. It is common for a builder to use a floor beam only on the first floor of a building and rely on interior walls and other inside features to give support to any subsequent upper floors. Some building designs, especially those that incorporate large open space or a loft-style upper story, may often use a large wooden floor beam to give architectural strength as well as visual appeal to the structure. Buildings such as log homes are often designed with large wood beams spanning the width of the upper stories, including the roof, to give needed support without sacrificing the traditional visual appeal.

What Are the Different Model Maker Jobs?

There are many different types of model maker jobs, though they all share the creation of physical, threedimensional (3D) models as a common aspect of the profession. Some jobs for model makers can be found with architecture firms, where a model is often made to represent a building for a client. There are also technical model makers who work with designers of electronics, cars, and just about everything else to create models before work begins on the actual product. Model maker jobs can also include model makers who work on film or television to create physical models and props for productions. A model maker is someone who makes 3D models, typically physical models, for use in advertising, entertainment, and other business interests. There are many different model maker jobs available, depending

on what someone is interested in and the type of models he or she likes to make. Architectural model making is one of the most prevalent types of model maker jobs and typically includes creating scale models of buildings to demonstrate how the final building will appear after construction. This is often done for model homes to convince investors to move forward with a construction project, as well as for large buildings that an architectural firm may be trying to construct. There are also model maker jobs within the technological and industrial industries. These types of jobs often require a model maker to have a keen eye for design and a sense of how appliances and electronic devices should look. Model maker jobs in these types of industries often include creating a model based on a piece of conceptual artwork to establish how a vehicle, appliance, or device may actually appear. This may include several passes and different models until one is approved and finalized, which may require constructing a model that perfectly represents the final product. Model makers that work in film and television often create models and props for use in entertainment productions. While digital models made in computers have become increasingly common for use in special effects, some physical models are still used. This often depends a great deal on the director of a production and the effects being created. Some model maker jobs also include the creation of props for use in a production, such as futuristic weaponry, settings, buildings, and vehicles. These types of jobs are often closely tied to working with a concept artist and other artists in creating a final vision that matches what is desired by a director or producer.

What Is Architectural Design Software?

Architectural design is the process an architect goes through in his or her work in doing the preparatory work for the construction of a building. CAD (Computer-Assisted Design) software is software used to create 2D and 3D objects in a way that will appropriately translate into the real world. Architectural design software is CAD software that is specially crafted and specialized for the work that an architect has to do. Sometimes one company has different versions of a basic CAD program. In this case, the architectural design version will be the one whose features, assumptions, and tools reflect what is most useful to architects. There are some free architectural design software programs, as well as some inexpensive ones for home owners who wish to try their hand at designing their own home. Professional architectural design software is separated in price by at least $1000 US Dollars (USD) in most cases, and by a vast amount of complexity and functionality. Some examples of professional architectural design software include Vectorworks Architectural by Nemetschek, AutoDesk AutoCAD, Bentley MicroStation, the self-named Chief Architect Full, IMSI Design TurboCAD Pro Platinum, the self-named DataCAD, and Graphisoft ArchiCAD. Some of the key aspects of professional architectural design software include elements that are very specific to the task of designing a building, and some are more general. The capabilities in 2D drafting and 3D modeling are a given, but different programs have different approaches to Building Information Modeling (BIM) functionality. Shading, photorealistic rendering, and printing capabilities are also key, as is CAD standards management. A well-thought-out library is also very useful. Productivity and non-core features that are also important include digital security as a means to confirm file approvals and controlling digital rights. Workgroup collaboration, including how files are shared and how

versioning is handled, is extremely important for team projects. MicroStation, for example, uses Microsoft SharePoint, while ArchiCAD uses a BIM Server to coordinate teamwork and sharing with clients. Interoperability is crucial in architectural design software, on many different levels. First, the ability to import files from a wide variety of origins is helpful, and some professional programs keep the range as broad as possible, including Google SketchUp along with more traditional file types. The choice of Export, Save As, and Publish file formats are also important, as is the ability to assemble multiple file formats. A variety of file format options are important for Copy and Paste, too. A program that runs on multiple operating systems can also be desirable.

What Is a Title Block?

The title block is an important element found in professional architectural drawings that contains data about the drawing, such as the title, its number, and the name of the architect. It may also have a company logo, copyright information, and data on the date it was completed. Basically, a title box is a rectangle that contains all the information needed to identify, verify, interpret, and archive any architectural schematic. A typical title block is subdivided into numerous areas that contain different types of information, and it is usually found on the bottom or lower right-hand corner of any drawing. One section in the block is used to note down the drawing title and the drawing number; these are important for filing and verification purposes. The drawing number is unique to a particular schematic and is usually a code containing critical data about the drawing. The information may include data on the type of drawing, revision details, and details about the site. It may also have the sheet number, which is important in understanding whether a drawing is spread out over numerous sheets or is a stand-alone drawing. The schematics are mostly filed according to the unique drawing number because the title may be shared by numerous architectural prints. Signatures and copyright data are also contained within the title block, and this allows the person studying the schematic to know who drew it up and who verified it. Details on when that particular system or component was designed is also found here, which can be quite useful in sourcing more data on particular aspects of the design or overall operation. Knowing who gave the schematic the final approval and the name of the legal owner of the drawing can be important for resolving issues. For instance, these names may help in resolving inconsistencies between the schematic and other sources of data. Another element normally found within a title block contains reference information and is known as the reference block. This block contains details about other schematics that are related to the present component or system. It is quite helpful in tracking down additional details and also lists other schematics that are crossreferenced in the drawing being considered and is dependent on the conventions of the vendor or site. Other details that may be found in the title block vary depending upon the site and vendor it may be possible to find data regarding the scale of the drawing and contract information.

What Is 3D CAD?
Three-dimensional computer aided design, or 3D CAD, is a kind of software that helps architects, engineers, and other construction professionals design schematics for three-dimensional objects. 3D CAD is commonly used in the design of a variety of objects, including automobiles and other vehicles, industrial, commercial or

residential buildings, and virtually every category of household device or appliance. 3D CAD is also a crucial tool for creating computer-generated animation. Computer aided design, or CAD, was developed as a professional field in the 1970s, as a way to lower costs and the time associated with the design and testing phases of product development. It began as a substitute for both paper schematics and clay models, but with ongoing advances in operating systems and computer hardware, has gone a long way towards replacing them as a production tool. This is not to say CAD users no longer require training, however, and modern architects and designers require as much, if not more education and practice to master the latest computer-aided design techniques. Many of the concepts involved in 3D CAD are the same as those used in traditional paper or clay modeling CAD. Ideas such as geometry, scale, mass, and even biomechanics are all as necessary for modern designers, engineers, and architects to understand as it was for those working in the 1960s. To illustrate this, designing an automobile frame with 3D CAD could be compared to traditional schematic design in the same way that word processing could be likened to hand-writing a letter. One of the greatest benefits 3D CAD enjoys over paper drafting or clay modeling is the idea of virtualization. That is, a computer model can be edited, adjusted, and even completely reworked with no added cost, other than time spent. All of the work is virtual, displayed dynamically on an electronic screen, and can be revisited and modified ad infinitum. Modern designers can incorporate new ideas and recommendations far more easily than their predecessors, who would have to literally 'go back to the drawing board' and start anew with any changes. Modern CAD technology has allowed design companies to increase productivity while reducing manpower, as the time needed to complete a single project has decreased dramatically thanks to computerization. In addition, even the costs of 3D CAD itself have gone down considerably over the last three decades. Although previously purpose-built computer systems were needed to run 3D CAD software, it is possible now to create relatively complex designs with fairly basic personal computers. Nevertheless, professional results demand the latest in hardware and software.

What Is an Architectural Rendering?

An architectural rendering is a two-dimensional document used by architects to present a proposed design by illustrating the way that a structure will look after it has been completed and while it is in use. In many cases an architectural rendering will include elements of landscape, regional weather, and population. A proposed university building, for example, may be illustrated in an architectural rendering in a manner that situates the building in relationship to existing structures. It may also include superimposed images of people walking near the building or standing in the building. The images of these people would be borrowed from other sources and would be sized to match the scale of the rendering. Such renderings are meant to be photorealistic, but it is usually clear to the naked eye that the renderings are not, in fact, photos of real places. An architectural rendering of very high quality may look, at first glance, as though it is a real photograph. The larger and more realistic the rendering, the more expensive it is to create. Depending on the size and scope of an architecture firms, renderings may be created by in-house staff members. It is also common for firms to contract this work out to companies that specialize in architectural models and renderings.

There are various uses for an architectural rendering. In addition to using a rendering to present a design concept to a client, a rendering might also be used in the company's marketing materials. This is especially true if a client decides to go with the design presented in the rendering, or a design that is a slightly altered version of what is presented in the rendering. As it can take make years for a structure to go from design to completion, an architectural firm may use an architectural rendering to display a structure that has not yet been finished. Renderings may be used in marketing materials, on the company's website, and may also be displayed in the office lobby. In addition to still architectural renderings such as the ones described above, there are also computer-animated renderings. These sorts of renderings allow users to take a virtual tour of a proposed structure. It is most common for this kind of architectural rendering to be created for a large or highly specialized structure. Such virtual tours of proposed structures may include tours of interior and exterior spaces related to the structure.

What Do Eco Builders Do?

Eco builders build homes, offices and other buildings to sustainable, or "green," standards. They also renovate homes and buildings to make them more environmentally friendly. These builders are experts in green building technologies and sustainable building practices, products and systems. They often work with "green-educated" architects, landscape designers, engineers and other building professionals to design sustainability into projects. A major goal of eco building is to reduce the amount of materials needed to build and maintain projects over time. Using fewer materials saves energy, reduces waste in landfills and more. Eco builders often seek to build homes and buildings that are of timeless design, so that they do not have to be updated every few years to keep up with changing trends. Eco builders might focus on building clean, contemporary styles that require fewer materials to build. They sometimes try to use materials that can be found locally to project sites, to reduce energy consumption and other effects of transporting the materials. Some examples of materials and systems that eco builders work with include bamboo and reclaimed woods for flooring, cabinets and elsewhere. They use systems such as photovoltaic roof panels; smart technologies that monitor and turn off computers, lights and other items when not in use; and high-resistance insulations to help conserve energy. Eco builders also might add water capture and reclamation systems to homes and buildings and incorporate hot water solar systems. Eco builders not only build in a sustainable way, they also seek to tear down old structures that way. For example, if existing buildings on project sites must come down, eco builders will deconstruct them to green standards. They might pulverize the wood from existing buildings for mulch and grind up and recycle concrete and other materials. Many eco builders seek to achieve Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Certification for their building projects. This internationally recognized certification is awarded through the United States Green Building Council. Eco builders are certified in different categories and at various levels, including silver, gold and platinum, the highest achievable level. To achieve certification builders must demonstrate that their projects were designed and built to reduce energy use, save water, reduce carbon dioxide emissions and more. Being able to say that a project is LEED certified is the pinnacle of success for many eco builders.

Professional LEED credentials and certifications for individuals are also awarded. Individuals can test for credentials specializing in green home building, neighborhood development, interior design and construction and other areas. Professional certificates in residential and commercial building sectors designate a complete understanding of LEED building principles.

What Is an Eco Roof?

An eco roof, also called a green roof, is an environmentally friendly alternative to a conventional roof. A layer of soil is placed on the roof where vegetation is then planted. This adds insulation, reduces the amount of construction debris from shingles, and creates a more usable area out of the same space. Creating eco roofs can help reestablish ecosystems that were demolished during construction, particularly in urban areas. Green roofs require a multilayered configuration, beginning with a waterproof membrane to prevent water from entering the house. A root barrier is placed on top of the waterproof membrane to stop roots from attaching themselves to the house. A drainage system is constructed, on top of which the soil layer is situated. This layer ranges from 4 to 6.5 inches (10.16 to 16.5 cm) in thickness. The final component of the eco roof is vegetation, which can include variations of local and exotic plant life. Many people find that the extra space afforded by an eco roof is useful for creating their own garden. Some may choose to add aesthetic details to their house, while others enjoy the additional space for growing edible plants. Eco roofs also provide homes, businesses, and large buildings with better insulation compared to other roof types. Employing a green roof has been proven to significantly reduce energy expenses. Water runoff is a problem in urban environments that can be prevented by installing a green roof. Sewer systems can overflow and release sewage into the streets following a heavy bout of rainfall. Green roofs can retain up to 75% of the rainfall that falls on them and absorb pollutants into the soil. The water stored in the soil eventually transpires and evaporates into the atmosphere, cleansed of many impurities. Adding more green space to an urban environment can help reestablish former ecosystems that were lost during early urban development in the 19th and 20th centuries. During these times, the harmful effects of city construction and maintenance on the existing ecosystem were given little thought. Birds and insects were driven out or forced to survive in urban cityscapes, altering their natural behavior. Eco roofs provide extra living space for animals, restoring balance, and encouraging them to feed on their natural prey instead of human by-products or waste. The influx of plant life into an urban environment helps reduce greenhouse gases, such as carbon dioxide. Cities produce great amounts of carbon dioxide in a very dense space, with little to no vegetation to recycle the gas into oxygen. Adding an eco roof on a major city building, regardless of height, allows plants to absorb carbon dioxide. As more roofs are converted, carbon dioxide levels decrease. The amount of harmful gas buildup in the upper atmosphere, which contributes to ozone deficiency and warming trends, is lowered. There is very little concern about waste or hazardous by-products from green roofs, due to their organic nature. Conventional shingled roofs result in large amounts of waste from excess material or old shingles that are removed for re-roofing. In the United States, shingle waste accounts for up to 10% of construction and demolition waste in a year. An increase in eco roofs substantially cuts the amount of waste produced by the construction business.

The downside of eco roof conversion is the high initial cost. While a green roof has the potential to significantly lower costs within years after its implementation, installing one is more expensive than a traditional roof. Eco roofs, like others, have an upkeep cost. It is usually much lower than maintenance costs for shingle roofs, however, and its favorable attributes, such as added insulation, reduce expenses in the long run, canceling out the cost of upkeep.

What Is a Green Roof?

There are many different varieties of green roofs, all of which may incorporate some form of living plant matter. In urban and suburban environments, a green roof can be a way to make use of space that would otherwise be left bare. Container gardens on rooftops may be used as either vegetable or flower gardens. In other situations, a green roof may refer to a structure that is covered in sod or other vegetable matter. This can include individual homes, high-rises, and other modern structures that are designed specifically to support heavy vegetation. Green roofs were first traditionally composed of two layers of sod laid over birch bark. The sod could then extend its roots down into the bark and help to hold it in place, potentially resulting in a more stable structure. This was a common type of roof in many Scandinavian countries. A variant known as the sod house was also found in Canada and the US during the original settling of the prairies in those countries. Instead of just using sod as a roof covering, the walls of of these houses were constructed of stacked up pieces of turf. Sod is also sometimes used in the roofing of modern structures, though the process may differ. Rather than initially covering the roof in birch bark, a variety of roofing felts and water-proofing materials may be used. Similar materials and processes may also be employed when creating an extensive green roof. This type of building covering, like the sod roof, is typically composed of living vegetable matter that often requires very little maintenance after being installed. The other main categories of green roofs are known as semi-intensive and intensive. These roofs can include items such as container gardens and other installations that may require a substantial amount of money or labor to maintain on a regular basis. An intensive or semi-intensive green roof may need to be watered regularly, and can involve other potential yearly investments such as the purchase and application of fertilizers. The result may be a sort of rooftop park or garden. Designing a structure to have a green roof, or retrofitting an existing building, can be costly, though there may be a number of benefits. A green roof may contribute to the energy efficiency of a building, while the roof itself may last longer than a traditionally constructed one. If the roof includes container gardens, there is also the possibility of growing fresh produce. Certain green roofs may even help increase the property value.

What Are Sedum Roofs?

Sedum roofs include any roof surface lined with plants rather than traditional roofing materials. Sedum roofs are considered a type of extensive green roof, which includes roofs planted with small shrubs and flowers that are largely self-maintaining. They serve as an economical and easy-to-install alternative to intensive green roofs, which are designed to provide an elaborate park-like setting on the roof of a building. Sedum roofs not only serve as added green space in urban areas, but also offer a number of environmental benefits to building occupants and the community.

To create a sedum roof, contractors start by installing traditional roof framing and sheathing. These materials are covered by a waterproofing membrane, which prevents moisture from entering the structure. Simple frames are used to create compartments, or planting beds. Each bed is filled with some form of planting medium, which may include soil, gravel, or vermiculite. Small shrubs, flowers, and grasses can then be added to the planting medium. Some companies also sell pre-manufactured kits that allow users to easily create sedum roofs. These kits include frames to support the planting beds, as well as mesh membranes equipped with a planting medium and seeds or young plants. Some also include built-in drainage systems to ensure proper waterproofing and moisture protection. These green roofs are named for the plant genus Sedum, which includes many species of hardy, green plants. Many of these species are largely self-sufficient, and can live solely on rainwater. In certain climate zones, small sprinkler systems may be required to support these roofs. Like other types of green roofs, sedum roofs provide many benefits to occupants. The plants and plant medium act as a layer of insulation, which helps to regulate the temperature within the structure. It also helps to improve energy efficiency and cut heating and cooling costs year round. Added green space also improves air quality and helps to reduce the phenomenon of urban heat islands. These roofs also serve as an attractive space when viewed from higher elevations, or from access points on the roof itself. Depending on the size and weight of the sedum, these roofs may require additional structural framing support, which could increase building costs. They may also pose a challenge to building owners in terms of maintaining effective drainage channels. Finally, sedum roofs tend to cost more than traditional asphalt or rubber roofs on average, and may not fit every project budget.

What is Green Landscaping?

When landscaping reduces environmental harm as well as conserving money and resources, it is referred to as green landscaping. A growing awareness of environmental issues among consumers in the late 1990s led to an explosion of green landscaping projects, as gardeners realized that they could make a difference in their environment. A number of concepts come together in green landscaping to create a beautiful but also highly efficient garden. Typically, when the term green is used to describe a product or way of life, it means environmentally friendly. Followers of the green movement believe that by reducing their own usage of resources, they can reduce their negative impact on the environment, and influence culture to the same ends. The green movement has spread from individuals to companies and businesses as well, with these organizations consciously choosing a more green way of doing business. People can build green houses, drive green cars, use green technology, and purchase green food, among many other things. Since the green movement believes that every little bit counts, many consumers start small and work their way up. Ideally, a green garden should have little to no negative environmental impact. In fact, a green garden should benefit the environment by encouraging ecological diversity, creating a space for wildlife to live, and reducing the use of resources contributed on the part of the garden's owner. This is accomplished in a number of ways, starting with a change in garden design which puts a focus on native plants and species diversity. Resource-

intensive lawns are shrunk in favor of more natural landscaping, and plants are plotted in an efficient and logical way. The use of a garden plan which takes the natural environment of the region into account will certainly reduce resource usage, but most gardeners take additional measures. Yard and household plant waste are composted, and natural fertilizers are used rather than chemicals. Gardeners use integrated pest management in green landscaping, rather than toxic sprays. They also control storm water runoff, reusing the water in the garden rather than allowing it to flood waterways and spill out to sea. An important part of green landscaping is also the ability to reduce heating and cooling bills for both businesses and homes. Well placed plants can help buildings be more heat efficient, which leads to reduced reliance on air conditioning and heating measures. When a green building is combined with green landscaping, energy bills can drop quite significantly. Planting trees as a windbreak to protect homes from cold winds and weather can be a great way to reduce energy bills. So can using a living roof of grass and native plants to insulate a building, and planting deciduous trees or vines on the South side of a building to shade it in the summer and allow sunshine through in the winter.

How Do I Choose the Best Small Trees for Landscaping?

There are several factors to consider when selecting small trees for landscaping. Before purchasing the trees, the landscaping area and the general climate of the area should be analyzed. The soil type of the landscaping site should also be evaluated. Then, the gardener must think about whether she wants deciduous or evergreen trees. The next consideration is whether any special features of the trees, such as colorful flowers or an abundance of fruit, are desired. Lastly, in choosing small trees for landscaping, it is important to look at each tree individually and select healthy specimens from the nursery or home garden store. Since landscaping areas vary significantly from one site to the next, it is important to accurately measure the site to be landscaped before choosing small trees for that area. Even small trees vary in their height and the spread of their branches. The small trees for landscaping need plenty of space to grow healthily and to keep their natural shape, and some trees need more space than others, mandating a larger landscaping space. When considering the landscaping site, it is beneficial to know the soil type of the area as well. Some trees grow well in clay soil, while others prefer sandy soil. It may also be helpful to know whether the soil is acidic or alkaline since some trees grow better in one or the other. Climate also is an important consideration when choosing small trees for landscaping. Some trees thrive in warm temperatures, while others need cooler weather to grow. It is important to know the temperature range, the average rainfall, the altitude, and the likelihood of strong winds for the landscaping site. Once that information has been determined, trees that match those criteria will grow better than those that do not match the criteria. Seasonal interest is another consideration when selecting small trees for landscaping. For example, deciduous trees may have colorful foliage in the fall, but bare branches in the winter. In the alternative, evergreens will have foliage all year long, but the color of the foliage may not change. Some gardeners may prefer a splash of color to an evergreen tree, while others may despise bare branches, even in the winter months.

The specific features of the trees must also be a factor when choosing small trees for landscaping. For example, the foliage of the tree may have a particular color, texture, size, or shape. Those features should blend with the overall effect of the landscaping, if possible. Also, some trees produce fragrant flowers, while others do not. In addition, some small trees generate fruit, cones, and nuts that may be beautiful or a problem, particularly with birds and animals, such as squirrels, deer, and bears. Once the landscaping area and preferences of the gardener have been narrowed down, it is time to select the trees. Choosing a healthy tree is essential. Look for trees with roots that spread out evenly and are not clumped together. The tree should have a firm trunk and should be free from dead foliage as well.

What Are the Different Types of Front Garden Designs?

Front garden designs can be elaborate, colorful, or classic depending on the taste of the homeowner. Some gardeners prefer a manicured look with plush lawns, sculpted shrubs, and brick edged walkways. Others enjoy more of a country type setting, with a white picket fence and multi-colored wildflowers that cover the yard and spill over the front gate. Yet another type of front garden landscape may have more unusual designs, such as exotic rock gardens, ponds, and miniature waterfalls. Some homeowners want an attractive but understated entrance to their home, with a healthy, green lawn, flanked by small bushes and a stone pathway. Such front garden designs may include white gravel under potted plants that line the walkway. In this type of garden a few rhododendron bushes and a birdbath may ornament the way to the main entrance of the home. Small trees planted in front of the windows may offer both privacy and curb appeal in a classic front yard. For gardeners who enjoy a more elaborate display, front garden designs might include statues that double as planters, polished pebbles, and waterfalls. This kind of garden may feature a walkway lined with colorful pebbles alongside a Koi fish pond that can be lit after dark. Some homeowners design their own rock gardens, using textured rocks to form pictures or words that can be changed whenever desired. A variety of plantings, such as pussy willows, Japanese maple trees, and Rose of Sharon may add color and texture. A pond might have a waterfall under a willow tree, along with a wooden, swinging bench. If the front yard has a fence, combinations of wildflowers and perennials may grow on both sides, in an variety of natural front garden designs. For a fence that is white or natural wood, colorful combinations of sunflowers, daffodils, or tulips can create a pleasing contrast. Plants like clematis and wisteria can be trained to climb the fence posts. A gazebo may fit well within such a design. Hanging plants and wind chimes might be placed inside to create a peaceful sitting area. In a large yard, a multi-storied bird house can round out this combination of natural and man made features.

How Do I Make a Miniature Garden?

To make a miniature garden, you need to find the ideal container, acquire miniature plants for planting in the garden, and choose appealing furniture and other attractive objects to complete the look. Miniature gardening or miniature landscaping is a fun hobby that requires a green thumb, patience, and whole lot of imagination. With the popularity of miniature gardens, entire stores, websites, and catalogs have sprung up devoted to this unique pastime.

The first thing you'll want to decide on is the overall look you're going for. This will help determine what kind of container, plants, and objects you eventually need to purchase for your miniature garden. Drawing up a rough sketch is a good preliminary step to crafting your garden. Next, you need to decide on an appropriate container to house your garden. Flower pots, birdbaths, watering cans, or even a simple tray are perfect items to serve as the base of the miniature garden. You can either paint and decorate these or leave them unadorned. Locating the right plants for a miniature garden can make or break the design of the finished product. You want to choose plants that complement your color scheme and fit into the overall structure of the design. Plants that are too large will overpower the garden, and plants that are too small may be out of proportion to other objects within the garden. Some popular plant recommendations include hen and chicks flowers, stonecrop pink spurium, dwarf wintercreeper, dwarf Canadian hemlock, and bonsai trees. When planting a miniature garden, be sure to take into consideration the potential size a plant can become. Too little space will cause overcrowding and prevent all the plants from successfully maturing; too much space may leave the design looking sparse and unattractive. Also pay attention to the soil requirements of the plants you choose so you have the right dirt with the appropriate acid levels laid down in the container before planting commences. Arguably the most fun part of planting a miniature garden is choosing the accessories that will accompany the plants. There are countless types of miniatures on the market that make a whimsical addition to any miniature garden. Some of these might include small garden furniture, fences, arbors, walls, ornaments, stepping stones, wheelbarrows, and seasonal decorations. When your garden is complete, you will want to place it in an area with the right amount of sun for the plants you have chosen. Some miniature gardens can be started indoors and placed in windowsills in the colder months. With proper watering and nourishment, your miniature garden will provide an entertaining addition to your yard for the entire season.

What Are the Different Types of Sustainable Housing?

Sustainable housing, or green architecture, refers to environmentally safe building designs. This type of housing can, either fully or partially, use renewable energy, such as sun or water, to power the homes. There are many different types of sustainable housing. Green roof homes are buildings with roofs that include various kinds of plants. The vegetation brings many advantages to the home, such as good insulation that blocks noises from outside. Green roofs also often help regulate the temperature, keeping the building cooler during the summer and warmer in the winter. They can be used as gardens for growing fruits, vegetables or flowers that improve the air quality not only for the home, but also for the surrounding area. Underground homes are another type of sustainable housing. These are usually made much like traditional homes, but are built partially or fully underground. Some have moss-covered roofs that blend in with the vegetation outside. Many of these houses make use of geothermal energy, or heat stored inside the Earth, to regulate temperature. Despite being underground, many of these houses have strategically-placed windows that allow natural sunlight to brighten them.

Modern wooden homes are also an example of green architecture. There are many variations of this type of housing, but some are rectangular-shaped and covered in oak. Wooden homes are often designed to blend in with the trees outside and may include special features like sliding glass-door ceilings to further blend the home and outdoors. Many wooden buildings are also designed to let air and light into the rooms and create a sense of space. Glass houses are generally supported by steel frames and have walls made almost entirely from glass. This feature allows natural light to warm the entire home during the day. These homes often include photovoltaic panels, which convert sunlight into electricity that can power the home at night. This system reduces electricity bills and impact on the environment. Sometimes, nature is literally included in the house, such as a tree left to continue growing through the building it's trunk inside the home and it's branches over the roof. Another unique type of sustainable housing is found in the form of floating homes, or houseboats. These ecofriendly houses float on water and are typically light-weight and small in size. Although houseboats are not usually large, their design typically makes the most use of space, often making them feel spacious inside. Some of these structures are filled with argon gas which helps to insulate and keep the house afloat. Many floating homes make use of solar and hydro power, or power generated from water currents, to make electricity and heat.

What are the best Methods for sustainable Planning?

The best sustainable planning methods for city development take into consideration the region and its various systems as a whole. In other words, natural waterways, adjoining neighborhoods, transportation, energy and many other systems should be integrated so that the area is livable for people. Through programs and designs that are both workable and environmentally responsible, sustainable planning can make a difference in creating healthier living environments. For example, careful waste management leads to creating community awareness programs on the importance of reducing garbage. Sustainable planning to reduce the amount of garbage in a city's landfills is something residents are likely to support and become involved in. These objectives can easily fit in with community recycling programs that help residents create less garbage by recycling more items. Sustainable planning to lower each resident's consumption of energy fits in with a city plan to use more renewable energy sources. Planning to use energy sources more efficiently and carefully leads to considering how a city's land can be used most effectively. City land planning for a sustainable future must be in focus since half the population of the world now lives in urban areas. City living also relates to the distance residents must travel to get to work. Sustainable planning to create work areas closer to living spaces means less driving and congestion on city roads during rush hour. This in turn relates to reducing carbon dioxide emissions that harm the environment. Sustainable planning for bicycle and walking lanes in strategic areas of the city creates clear options for more people to walk or bike to work, meaning fewer emissions. The consideration of travel time and increased emissions also relates to transporting supplies such as food; planning for more locally based agricultural and community gardens can help solve the problem.

Sustainable planning for many cities worldwide includes downtown pedestrian malls. A pedestrian mall is a popular type of no car shopping zone. Creating tree-lined walking areas with desirable stores in pedestrian malls also help make the mall attractive to tourists; this brings more money to merchants and their cities.

What Does a Department of Planning and Infrastructure Do?

A department of planning and infrastructure is a department within a government or business entity responsible for developing components that contribute to the health of a society or population and the strength of an economy. The writing of policies, analysis of budget, and the consideration of functions such as transportation and sanitation are often the concerns of this kind of department. Officials who serve in a department of planning and infrastructure may either be elected or appointed and may work with or without pay for their duties. Departments that deal with these issues have various names established by their founders; not all refer directly to planning and infrastructure, although "Department of Planning and Infrastructure" is the proper name of the sector of the Australian federal government that deals with them. Town, urban, or city planning are common functions of a regional department of planning and infrastructure. These activities entail decision making regarding land usage. Issues such as the rebuilding and development of neighborhoods and districts are often managed by this kind of department. Transportation is also considered to be part of planning, and decisions and policies made by the department may direct what kind of budget transportation departments receive, where roads are built, and which methods of public transportation, such as buses, trains, and subways, are funded. The economic health of a region is often partly determined by the actions taken by a department of planning and infrastructure. While other factors, such as local industry and the wealth of consumers, also play a part in a region's prosperity, it is a department of planning and infrastructure that may be responsible for factors such as the state of roads and highways. These factors are instrumental in the transportation of goods and services, meaning that the health of a local economy is in part due to the policies and budgetary restrictions that are placed on this component of infrastructure. Public health is also a common concern of the department of planning and infrastructure. Functions such as trash pickup, sewers, water supply, and waste disposal are often the subjects of debate and policy making of this department. Policies may be drafted which dictate where potentially harmful plants or other manufacturing centers may be built in order to reduce dangerous pollution and contamination. Likewise, budgets are created that should, if effective, ensure that waste is safely disposed and that sewers are functional. The overall quality of life of citizens of a town, city, region, or country also may be determined by this department. Factors such as health and economic prosperity are often primary qualifiers when determining quality of life. A department of planning and infrastructure also may be responsible for the planning of power grids and communications, such as phone lines and access to Internet, television, and radio.

Whar is a town planner?

A town planner is the person who determines what a town and its citizens need to thrive. He conceives and develops strategies that he believes will benefit the most people in the most cost-effective ways. Some town planners work in conjunction with other local or regional planners to devise plans that may cross-benefit citizens in adjoining neighborhoods and districts.

Planning a town is generally considered to be an extremely challenging task. Since a town planner is typically changing or upgrading an existing town rather than planning a new one, his first task is normally to decide what features and systems are successful as they are. Once the positives have been established, he customarily moves on to areas he feels could be improved. Common goals of a town planner often include better land management, improved public transportation, better streets and roads and slum renovation. Building recreational parks or improving existing ones is a regular goal of a town planner. Upgrading outdated public utility systems, such as water, electricity, natural gas and underground telecommunications structures, are often the focus of his renovation plans. A town planner typically introduces his reformation strategies by presenting general ideas and progressing to specific ones. He may get his proposals in motion by holding a town meeting to entertain comments and suggestions from the citizens on general areas of concern. He may offer his own ideas or merely listen and take notes on the ideas proposed by others. Before a town planner draws up any official proposals for public review, he normally conducts detailed research of the towns history and its demographics. His investigation typically reveals the citys past triumphs and challenges in project administration and land development. Demographic information generally provides him with information vital to planning for his towns present needs and future growth. Once his information is complete and organized, the town planner usually presents his proposals to local government entities, such as planning commissions or urban growth boards. This may be done in a private setting or a public forum. Some areas hold town meetings to allow the citizens to review the plans and provide immediate feedback to the commission and planner. Educational requirements for the position of town planner vary by region. A significant number of towns require at least a bachelors degree in regional planning or urban development. Some towns require a masters degree in a subject related to town planning. Background in city, town or community planning is helpful when applying for this position.

What Is a Suburb?
A suburb is an urban area, adjacent to and economically interconnected with a larger metropolitan area. Suburbs are typically residential communities, and a large percentage of a suburbs population is apt to commute to the metropolitan core community. Suburbs typically have a lower population density than central cities with a greater degree of urban sprawl. Life in a suburb, particularly in an American suburb, generally requires access to an automobile. Suburbs first emerged in Europe and America as a response to the development of commuter rail systems in the latter part of the 19th century. These rail networks allowed the middle classes to work in downtown areas but live away from the crowded and dirty city centers. The emergence of the automobile and highway systems further encouraged the growth of suburban communities. Suburbs are often associated with the United States, and the archetypical American suburb was Levittown, located on Long Island and designed to provide homes for middle-class Americans looking to move out of New York. Levittown, a product of the boom years following World War II, was the first of many American suburbs to feature single-family homes, distributed retail, and extensive road networks designed to facilitate the inflow

and outflow of commuters rather than steady traffic. Suburbs grew quickly around the world during the postwar years, although not always in the American model. Moscow acquired suburbs of its own, defined not by endless miles of roads but by rank after rank of identical towering apartment complexes and mass transit connections to the city center. The history of the suburb in America is associated with several controversial social trends. Suburbs, especially during the 20th century, tended to be much whiter than urban areas. Urban whites often took advantage of their greater mobility to leave behind racially-mixed urban neighborhoods. This tended to produce white suburbs and black inner cities, a pattern that dominated the American suburban landscape for much of the 20th century, although one that began to break down thereafter. This racial segregation accompanied financial segregation, with suburbs being more prosperous than older urban areas throughout the 20th century. Urban sprawl is typically seen as a legacy of the growth of the suburb in America. In cities such as Chicago and Los Angeles, each new suburb required the development of vast tracts of land, often fertile farmland. Critics argued that the low-density housing typical of American suburbs was a very poor model for land use, and that smaller, denser urban areas were a better alternative, so long as they were well-designed and maintained.

What Is a Sustainable Plan?

Also known as sustainable development, a sustainable plan is a structured course of action that is designed to meet the current needs of those concerned, while also laying the groundwork for the needs of future generations. The concept of a sustainable plan is often used in various types of urban and suburban planning, as well as in the design of road systems. A sustainability plan often involves making the most efficient use of available resources, while also seeking to ensure that the impact for later generations is as positive as the benefits derived by the current generation. Today, planning a sustainable city, town, or neighborhood often includes not only using available resources in the most prudent manner, but also taking into account the present and future impact of the planning on the environment. This is because there is a much higher awareness of the need to preserve the environment for future generations than in decades past. For this reason, a sustainable plan will consider such factors as laying out a grid of streets that allow the use of alternative modes of travel, such as walking or riding a bicycle, as well as account for the use of automobiles and similar vehicles. A sustainable plan will also look closely at the types of materials used in constructing buildings, creating sewage systems, and even strategically incorporated live flora and fauna into the overall design for the community. The layout of the streets will often allow for future widening of various thoroughfares, anticipating the population growth of the area and the need to accommodate increasing amounts of traffic in generations to come. At the same time, a truly sustainable process of city planning will include ways to preserve the integrity of existing business districts and residential areas in such a way as to allow issues such as urban blight and decline to be minimized from one generation to the next. There is no one ideal process for developing a sustainable plan. Factors such as the climate, type of raw materials available in the area, the population of the community, and the general condition of the environment in the area are all important considerations that will affect one or more components of the plan. For this reason, it is usually not possible to develop a truly sustainable plan for a city or town without spending a great deal of

time and effort to consider all relevant factors, and determine how to proceed in a manner that will be beneficial over the long term.

What Are the Different Types of Sustainable Housing?

Sustainable housing, or green architecture, refers to environmentally safe building designs. This type of housing can, either fully or partially, use renewable energy, such as sun or water, to power the homes. There are many different types of sustainable housing. Green roof homes are buildings with roofs that include various kinds of plants. The vegetation brings many advantages to the home, such as good insulation that blocks noises from outside. Green roofs also often help regulate the temperature, keeping the building cooler during the summer and warmer in the winter. They can be used as gardens for growing fruits, vegetables or flowers that improve the air quality not only for the home, but also for the surrounding area. Underground homes are another type of sustainable housing. These are usually made much like traditional homes, but are built partially or fully underground. Some have moss-covered roofs that blend in with the vegetation outside. Many of these houses make use of geothermal energy, or heat stored inside the Earth, to regulate temperature. Despite being underground, many of these houses have strategically-placed windows that allow natural sunlight to brighten them. Modern wooden homes are also an example of green architecture. There are many variations of this type of housing, but some are rectangular-shaped and covered in oak. Wooden homes are often designed to blend in with the trees outside and may include special features like sliding glass-door ceilings to further blend the home and outdoors. Many wooden buildings are also designed to let air and light into the rooms and create a sense of space. Glass houses are generally supported by steel frames and have walls made almost entirely from glass. This feature allows natural light to warm the entire home during the day. These homes often include photovoltaic panels, which convert sunlight into electricity that can power the home at night. This system reduces electricity bills and impact on the environment. Sometimes, nature is literally included in the house, such as a tree left to continue growing through the building it's trunk inside the home and it's branches over the roof. Another unique type of sustainable housing is found in the form of floating homes, or houseboats. These ecofriendly houses float on water and are typically light-weight and small in size. Although houseboats are not usually large, their design typically makes the most use of space, often making them feel spacious inside. Some of these structures are filled with argon gas which helps to insulate and keep the house afloat. Many floating homes make use of solar and hydro power, or power generated from water currents, to make electricity and heat.

What Is a Sustainable City?

A sustainable city is a city which has been designed with environmental concerns in mind. A large percentage of the human population around the world lives in cities and urban areas, underscoring the need for sustainable practices in these environments. Sustainable cities aim to change the way they operate for the benefit of future generations, ensuring that they do not put a strain on resources which will cause such resources to vanish before future generations have an opportunity to benefit from them.

Sustainability is a complex topic. On a basic level, it involves practices which are designed to be sustainable in the long term, meaning that people can continue using these practices without harming the environment, and possibly with some benefit to the environment. On a city-wide level, sustainability encompasses a wide variety of changes, all of which are intended to reduce the environmental impact of the city as a whole. These changes can include individual lifestyle changes made by citizens as well as city-wide shifts in policy. One goal of a sustainable city is to reduce needs and reliance on surrounding areas. In addition to being environmentally sustainable, this can also be economically beneficial, and may allow a city to be more secure in the event of a natural or civil emergency. Reduction of reliance on surrounding areas includes growing food in a city, reducing water needs and reusing water as much as possible, and generating energy inside the city. The city may become independent of the surrounding area, reducing strain on outlying communities. A sustainable city must also think about what it is putting out into the surrounding environment. Sustainable cities want to reduce waste in addition to lowering pollution. This is especially important in cities with limited processing capacity for things like waste, as such materials may be pushed onto surrounding communities unless the city takes responsibility for them. Some examples of things a sustainable city might implement include: green roofs, rooftop gardens, solar panels, bike lanes, better public transit, water recycling, centralized recycling facilities, energy efficient heating and cooling systems for large buildings, reuse of building materials, changes to the workweek which reduce congestion, tougher air quality controls, permeable pavement, wind energy, and community service programs. These changes may not have immediate effects and they can take years or decades to implement, but over time, they can have a cumulative benefit. Just installing green roofs in a sustainable city, for example, can radically reduce the rise in temperature commonly associated with cities.

What Is Sustainable Engineering?

Sustainable engineering is the science of applying the principles of engineering and design in a manner that fosters positive social and economic development while minimizing environmental impact. This mission is largely accomplished through efforts to redesign and retrofit existing systems based on an analysis of current operations, production quality, and the functional deficiencies that may potentially hinder these processes. Sustainable engineering practices may be applied to a variety of industries, including manufacturing, new and existing construction, energy systems, transportation, waste management, and environmental remediation. In short, any industry in which energy is expended or resources are consumed can benefit from responsible sustainable development. In terms of existing energy systems, buildings, and industrial processes, civil and environmental engineers specializing in sustainable engineering will typically review and benchmark energy and resource usage over a period of time for the purpose of evaluating function and performance. This also helps to serve as a marker for comparison analysis between similar systems or structures. The engineer may then look for ways to improve function and performance by identifying and prioritizing measures that will promote sustainability and reduce reliance on non-renewable resources. In effect, this equates to increasing overall profitability through realized savings in operational costs. It also usually requires the engineer to suggest necessary modifications to the existing design or construction in order to implement these strategies. New construction and development are another matter. In fact, its generally much easier to reap the benefits of sustainable engineering when designing from the ground up, so to speak. In addition, operational savings are

typically sooner recognized simply based on the fact that installing sustainable systems at start-up enhance the performance and life cycle of the equipment or constructional materials involved from day one. Recommendations regarding sustainable design are likely to include consideration of geothermal construction, solar and wind-powered lighting, heating, and cooling systems, waste heat and water recovery systems, and other green initiatives. In the US, sustainable engineering is a growing industry and many colleges and universities now offer graduate study programs in this field. However, sustainable engineering is a global movement with an international community that exercises practices that extend beyond environmental conservation and restoration. In fact, the World Engineering Partnership for Sustainable Development (WEPSD) and the World Commission on Environment and Development were both instrumental in the development of the Earth Charter, an international agreement intended to provide guidance toward the establishment of global sustainability as a means to promote world peace and the preservation of human rights and biodiversity for future generations.

What Are the Different Types of Sustainable Materials?

In the entire concept of ecology, few terms cause more confusion than the description of objects, resources, or practices as sustainable. To some, sustainable materials are those which are renewable; for instance, crops that can be harvested but continually replanted and grown again. Others consider sustainable materials to be those which can be repeatedly reused through recycling. Although there is no universally agreed-upon definition for sustainability, most definitions include the concept that the material can be used at a rate that will allow future generations access to the same abundance of resources without causing ecological harm. Fossil fuels are a clear example of a completely unsustainable resource. Although the Earth naturally produces fossil fuels as part of the breakdown of organic material, the rate at which humans consume the fuel means that the quantity is continually diminishing. Additionally, as the burning of fossil fuels adds polluting elements to the air, land, and sea, the use of this non-sustainable set of materials cannot be seen as having no impact on the environment. Renewable materials can be, but are not always, sustainable materials. When corn is grown, it can be harvested and replanted using some of the harvested seeds. Theoretically, this cycle can continue endlessly, particularly if green practices are employed to offset damage to the local ecosystem. If the corn is refined into ethanol, the resulting product may be renewable, but is not sustainable, due to the environmental pollution caused by the refining process. Some people consider recyclable materials to be sustainable materials, but with the caveat that the material must also be biodegradable. Cotton cloth, for instance, can be used repeatedly until biodegradation takes over and the materials rot back into organic compounds, leaving no measurable negative impact on the Earth. Plastic, however, may be recyclable but is not usually considered sustainable, because it may take hundreds or thousands of years to degrade. Additionally, depending on the chemical composition of the plastic, the environment may be harmed as detrimental chemicals leech into the Earth from the material. Perfectly sustainable materials are very hard to find; it is rare that the growth, refinement, life cycle, and decomposition of any material can occur with no impact on the Earth. Much of what determines sustainability has to due with the rate of consumption; wild berries might be considered sustainable in an unvisited, healthy

forest, but if a thousand people ran in and harvested them, the formerly sustainable crop would be quickly obliterated. For those looking to live an environmentally-friendly existence, it is important to investigate all claims of sustainability carefully. In many cases, materials deemed sustainable are actually renewable or recyclable, but not sustainable. Yet materials that do not quite match the concept of perfect sustainability may still be considerably less harmful to the environment than non-renewable or recyclable sources. Wood from forests continually re-planted and maintained, recycled denim insulation, and food from organic sources that take care in ensuring a safe turnover of the Earth, and tactics that offset any ecological damage may not be perfectly sustainable materials, but may still do a lot of good.

What is Renewable Energy Technology?

Renewable energy technology was created to offset the global reliance on non-renewable resources like natural gas, coal, and oil. It uses naturally occurring and replenishing processes to provide sources of energy that will never be depleted. Renewable energy technology most commonly refers to seven different energy sources, including solar, geothermal, and hydroelectric. This technology is an attempt to solve problems with fossil fuels, such as its dwindling supply and environmental consequences. Purveyors of renewable energy technology look to the natural forces at work in and on the Earth. These processes, being part of the Earth's natural order, are sustainable for human consumption and not harmful to the environment. Solar energy is derived from sunlight and is a very versatile renewable energy technology. It can be converted directly to usable energy via solar cells and stored to provide power to buildings. It can also act as a substitute for fossil fuels in power plants, where it is used to boil water, which drives a turbine and creates electricity. Another renewable energy technology utilizes the force of the wind to generate power. Wind turbines are mounted atop a tall spire. When the wind passes the turbine's blades, the blades turn, moving the turbine and producing electricity. Geothermal renewable energy technology uses heat transmitted from the Earth's core through its crust to either provide direct heating or to generate electricity through a power plant. Pockets of geothermal heated water can be found beneath the Earth's surface, and power plants can use the steam and heat from these to provide electricity. Geothermal energy has the potential to utilize the heat from rock 3 to 5 miles (4.8 to 8 km) beneath the surface of the Earth and possibly heat from magma, the most desirable source of geothermal energy. The Earth's oceans act as gigantic solar collectors that trap heat in their upper layers. The great difference in temperature between the upper and lower levels of the ocean produces thermal energy. This energy is present in all of the Earth's oceans and can be used to accomplish many processes, including the production of electricity through thermal energy powered turbines in power plants. Hydroelectric renewable energy technology uses the force of river or lake waters to produce electricity. The water is usually kept behind a dam and formed into a reservoir. The water from the reservoir is allowed to pass through the dam in a slow and steady manner that will turn the turbines housed within and generate power.

Biological renewable energy technology, also referred to as bioenergy, provides energy through the naturally occurring biological processes that take place in a number of sources. Parts of organic waste, residues, and plants can be converted into biofuels, biopower, and bioproducts. When plants grow, they remove carbon dioxide from the air. This process is considered to offset the carbon dioxide that bioenergy technology produces. Hydrogen-based renewable energy technology uses the element hydrogen, found in many molecules and compounds, to produce power. Hydrogen fuel cells are capable of providing heat and electricity, and the only byproduct it releases is water, which can be recycled for human consumption and needs. Hydrogen fuel cells can be applied in many different fields, including powering automobiles and transportation devices.

What Are the Best Tips for Renewable Energy Investors?

Lucrative investing strategies often depend on finding new and developing technologies that have the opportunity to become major power players in the future. Renewable energy is often considered to be an exceptionally important developing industry that will become increasingly lucrative as fossil fuel supplies dwindle worldwide. Renewable energy investors can have a very profitable future, but it is important to maintain reasonable investment strategies despite the promise of the industry. Since the field of renewable energy is so young, it may be difficult to determine which pursuits will be the most successful. Solar plants, space solar ventures, wind power, biofuels, geothermal plants, and hydro power are all areas that are seeing technological advances and new means of application. A certain amount of investing with a view to future profitability will always rely on luck, but research can help narrow down the possibilities for initial investments. Many websites profile renewable energy companies that are open for investment; examining the company makeup and mission, the executives, and the stock profile can help renewable energy investors single out the best opportunities. For renewable energy investors that prefer to hire an investment account manager instead of managing a portfolio independently, it may be important to discuss renewable energy investing before signing on with a particular manager. Many renewable energy investors choose to invest in green technology for environmental reasons and to promote renewable development rather than just the opportunity for profits, and will need a manager who understands that the social agenda may need to take priority over financial gain. Some financial managers may have a lot of knowledge about green investing, whereas others prefer to avoid this developing area. Being honest about investment goals can help ensure a good relationship between a client and manager. Read journals and publications that focus on the renewable energy industry. These can help point out growing trends in the fields, and may open the investor's eyes to new opportunities. For renewable energy investors, becoming conversant in the field of green technology can help reduce the amount of guessing about which type of energy to invest in, or when it is time to buy or sell. Many financial experts agree that the key for renewable energy investors is to think long-term. At the dawn of the 21st century, fossil fuel reserves maintain a shaky existence, but still account for most of the energy used in the world. Over time, as reserves deplete, it is likely that more and more attention will be shifted toward renewable energy and applications. Choosing to invest in green technology may not be highly profitable for years or even decades, but many suggest it is a necessary wave for the future and has the chance of paying off remarkably in the future.

What Is the Solar Energy Industry?

The solar energy industry is made up of a number of businesses that are constantly seeking creative ways to harness the energy of the sun. While many consumers may believe that the solar energy market only consists of contractors and repairmen, there are actually a whole slew of professionals studying the geothermal energy industry. Scientists continually seek ways to better store solar power while manufacturers strive to increase quality control procedures to limit the cost to consumers. In fact, there are even lobbyists employed by the renewable energy industry to encourage the governments of the world to increase funding and to help create a greener Earth. The main employment sector of the solar energy industry does not focus on the sun's rays or solar panels. Instead, a large portion of the workforce is inside laboratories trying to reinvent the ways that people store energy. It is not a secret that the sun is easily powerful enough to provide electricity to the entire Earth; the key is finding ways to harness and save that energy so that it is readily available on demand. One-hundred years from now, it is expected that a battery the size of a tennis ball will be used to power entire housing complexes. Research and development within the renewable energy industry are extremely costly, which is why so many governments advise consumers to purchase solar panels for their homes and businesses. There are hundreds of thousands of contractors, freelance installers, and repairmen worldwide that install solar cells on a daily basis, while others are out finding new streams of revenue. The solar energy economy is largely dependent on government funding to achieve global freedom from fossil fuels, which is why there are so many activists involved within the solar energy industry. Solar energy industry professionals actually take up this cause for a variety of reasons. Not only does clean energy help conserve fossil fuels that can never be replaced, but it also provides a means for the average citizen to access inexpensive electricity for his home. Scientists are finding answers to these long-term problems in other areas as well, but none of them are considered even remotely as readily-available as sunlight. As new innovations within the solar energy industry become available in the future, the entire world will ultimately benefit from this technology.

What Is the Energy Industry?

The energy industry is comprised of any business, association, or service that is involved with the creation, extraction, development, or delivery of the many different types of energy available. Energy industry participants may be involved in the petroleum industry, gas industry, or even alternative energy industries such as wind and solar energy. Companies involved with the sale and distribution of energy are also part of the energy industry, even if such companies do not create, extract, or develop the energy themselves. Marketing agencies can also be considered part of the energy industry if they participate in marketing campaigns for energy companies or entities. The major players in the energy industry are coal, oil, gas, and nuclear power companies. These companies extract, refine, and distribute energy in their specific forms, and while they are an integral part of developed societies, they are also some of the biggest polluters in the world. Standards for clean energy have been developed and are constantly evolving in countries throughout the world to prevent global warming and other long-term effects of pollution resulting from energy consumption. As a result of air quality issues and safety concerns, the green energy movement gained traction in many developed nations to offer an alternative to unsustainable energy sources and high pollution.

Green energy is considered to be energy derived from renewable resources that cause less global pollution than other energy types. Solar energy and wind energy are the forerunners that fit into this category of the energy industry, though their presence on the world stage is quite limited. While wind and solar energy are both cleaner energy sources, they also tend to be more expensive and more difficult to establish and maintain. Because of these difficulties, the presence of wind and solar energy has been limited to small areas in some countries, making other energy sources such as coal or oil vital to growing economies. Retailers are an important part of the energy industry as well. Local gas stations provide an important outlet for the products large energy companies produce, and delivery companies can transport various energy sources from factory to fuel station. Even companies that deliver firewood to small towns or to areas of developing countries, or companies that develop and distribute batteries can be considered part of the energy industry since they provide an energy source to a population of people. Any company that has a hand in extracting, refining, delivering, or selling energy in any way can be considered part of the industry as well, regardless of how big or small a role that company plays in the overall process.

What Is Energy Risk Management?

Managing risks associated with the energy industry is becoming increasingly complicated due to factors such as government regulations, public policy, financial concerns, and energy resource scarcity. In order to address these issues, impacted companies often implement energy risk management strategies. Energy risk management involves the process of pinpointing, evaluating, and prioritizing risks associated with uncertainty in the energy markets. Controlling energy risks can provide greater market assurance for companies like oil and gas producers, electric providers, and gas utilities. It can also give confidence to the insurance companies, banks, and manufacturers who work with these energy companies. An energy risk management assessment typically involves several steps. The first step requires identifying all possible energy threats. Once potential energy threats have been identified, the risks associated with these threats are usually quantified and prioritized. The final step in an energy risk management assessment usually entails finding ways to address the risk. Solutions may include reducing the energy risk, monitoring the risk, or eliminating the risk altogether. Different risks occur in different types of energy markets, and energy risk management strategies may vary depending upon which sector of the energy industry is being assessed. The electricity market, for instance, may pose different threats to a company than the oil or natural gas markets. Other factors that often present energy risks include climate change and environmental concerns. Companies generally employ one or more methods for handling energy risk. The strategy chosen is usually based on the type of risk at issue. In some cases, a company may shift the risk to another party, such as an insurance company. In other cases, a company may either avoid encountering the risk or find ways to minimize negative impacts associated with the risk. Another frequently used energy risk management strategy involves accepting and accounting for outcomes associated with the risk. Companies in the energy industry may use the services of an energy consulting firm. These firms are usually highly knowledgeable about the energy industry, and they can help companies create solid energy risk management plans. In addition, they can assist companies with assessing the impact of energy regulations. They can also assist with energy purchasing, evaluating energy costs, and developing energy conservation plans.

Some energy consulting firms serve as ambassadors for companies to government bodies. In this role, a firm may help structure competitive power markets or provide advice on energy tariffs. Some energy consultants also provide expert testimony in front of regulatory agencies or courts.

What Is Renewable Heat?

Renewable heat refers to any heating system that is powered by a source of renewable energy. Wood, biodiesel, geothermal, and solar radiation are all renewable sources of energy that can be used to generate heat. Renewable energy is generally defined as any energy source that can be replaced with the span of a human lifetime. Wood, for example, can be replaced within a decade or two, depending on the type of tree harvested. Wood is possibly the oldest form of renewable heat and can be used to power a wood-burning furnace or a woodstove. Woodstoves often offer several benefits over a wood-burning furnace, such as a lower initial cost, better efficiency, and lower carbon emissions. The two major disadvantages of woodstoves are the mess involved with operation and the fact that they are best suited for open floor plans. Furnaces; however, are not kept in the main living area and are better suited for heating multiple rooms. Biodiesel is often associated with transportation vehicles, but it can easily be used to generate renewable heat when used in an oil-fired furnace or boiler. Biodiesel is often referred to as "biofuel" or "bioheat" when used in this manner. The major advantage of this energy source is that usually no special equipment or expensive modifications are required for oil-based systems to use biodiesel. Existing systems can also use biodiesel exclusively or as a supplement to reduce carbon emissions. Geothermal systems bury liquid-filled coils at a depth where the temperature of the earth is consistent, usually near 75 degrees. The fluid rotates through the coils and gets warmer before being circulated back through a heat exchange chamber. Once in the chamber, the coils release heat to the surrounding air, which is then blown in to the building structure. Geothermal energy is such a reliable form of renewable heat that it is often the only heating system used in many new, and very large, constructions. Solar panels have been used for several decades to supplement traditional electrical systems. New solar systems, however, use green architecture designs to collect, absorb, and circulate heat from solar radiation. Liquid systems are often used with radiant heat, which supplies warmth directly to the homes flooring or panels in the walls or ceilings. Solar collectors can be used to directly heat the air in a room or in conjunction with a heat pump. New methods of insulation, often referred to in the green building industry as superinsulation, are often used in conjunction with renewable heat systems. Superinsulated structures are required to have a thermal insulation gradient nearly twice that which is required by local building codes. This technique uses double walls, continuous air and vapor barriers on all window and door seals, and traditional fiberglass insulation. Renewable insulation materials are also made from recycled denim, wood, and cellulose for those not wanting to use fiberglass materials.

What is Renewable Wind Energy?

In an abstract sense, renewable wind energy is simply the wind itself and the energy it produces. Wind is renewable because natural processes on the planet cause the wind to blow, and from a practical perspective, there is generally an endless supply of wind. The wind is considered a type of energy because it is in motion,

and people have found many different ways to harness that motion and use it for various purposes. People have been using renewable wind energy since ancient times, and over the centuries, they have generally found several different ways to take advantage of it. A basic application of renewable wind energy from ancient times is the sailboat. The sail captures the wind and allows sailors to propel boats faster and more efficiently. Eventually, people invented windmills, which are towers with fan-like attachments that capture the wind's power. Originally, the primary use for windmills was mostly in producing grain and water pumping, but other uses were eventually developed, such as sawing wood. This was economically helpful because it meant fewer people were required to do these jobs. Eventually, people found ways to use the windmill to generate electrical power, and this is now the primary use for renewable wind energy. The windmills are attached to electrical generators, and they are usually arranged on large wind farms with a lot of windmills all together in one place. These wind farms are usually placed in locations where there is a lot of natural wind and a lot of open land without forests. People also still occasionally use windmills for water pumping, especially on farms in areas without much human population. Renewable wind energy has some advantages over many other kinds of renewable energy along with some disadvantages. One of the main advantages of wind energy is that there is a lot of technology available to harness it, and that technology is considered relatively mature. People have been using wind for such a long time that windmill designs have had a lot of time to be refined and generally perfected. There are also a lot of power companies around the world that already use wind energy for large percentages of their power, so wind power is tested. The main disadvantage of wind energy for the purposes of electricity is the amount of space it takes to produce a significant amount of power. Its also generally true that wind isnt available in the same quantities at all times of the year, so it may not always be as reliable as some other energy sources. One complaint about the use of windmills is that they may kill a lot of birds every year, and some wind power-based companies have taken measures to try and make birds safer.

What Is a Zero Energy House?

A zero energy house is a home that has a net energy consumption of zero. The term zero energy is somewhat vague, and can be applied to a variety of different situations. Generally, a zero energy house will have few or no carbon and greenhouse emissions, will produce all its own energy through renewable sources, or will replace energy taken from traditional sources with materials from renewable sources. It is a mistake to think that a zero energy house has no electricity or devices that use energy. Zero energy houses usually have all of the appliances and conveniences of modern homes, such as lights, heated water, washing machines, and general use electricity. A zero energy house is distinguished not by the lack of energyusing materials but by the source from which energy is drawn, as well as a mechanism for replacing or generating energy without creating carbon or energy emissions. A zero energy house may produce all of its energy from renewable or sustainable sources, such as through the use of solar power. Solar power can be used to produce energy for a home or building, just like a power plant can for a large grid of buildings. If a house can rely totally on self-produced energy and takes nothing from a traditional electrical grid, it is often considered a zero energy house.

In some areas where renewable energy sources are publicly available, a house can be considered to have net zero energy if it only uses power from an offsite renewable source. This means that the house does not necessarily produce its own energy, but buys it from a renewable energy company. With offsite energy providers, it is often necessary to consider the energy lost in the transmission process when determining if a house or other structure is truly zero energy. The amount of energy needed to transmit and use renewable energy will be higher than the amount required just for use. The term zero energy house may also be used to describe a house that has a net zero carbon emission rating. This means that the house creates enough on-site renewable energy to balance the emissions caused by using some fossil fuel energy. This may also be called net zero cost, as the owner of the house can sometimes sell excess renewable energy to a main power company to offset the amount of fossil fuel power used by the house. Some environmental experts consider zero energy homes to be a major part of reducing greenhouse gas emissions and reducing the impact of sustained global warming. As renewable energy technology increases, it becomes far easier to incorporate zero energy design into modern homes without sacrificing the comfort or convenience of residents. Zero energy building is often portrayed as financially beneficial for residents, as using home-generated solar, thermal, or wind power can lower electricity and gas bills from main power companies significantly.

What is Zero Energy Building?

A zero energy building is a type of structure that produces the same amount of energy as it consumes. This results in zero net energy usage, which gives the building its name. The building is designed to be selfsufficient when it comes to electrical needs. The layout and materials used in the building normally assist in maintaining an ideal atmosphere inside the structure. This removes some load in the generators, making it easy to achieve zero net energy consumption. Environmental concern is the main reason why the net zero energy building was conceptualized. By creating a building that relies primarily on alternative energy, the dependence on fossil fuel is minimized. The building does this by integrating electrical generators in the structure. The electricity typically comes from renewable energy sources. Solar panels and wind turbines are commonly used as they rely mostly on natural weather conditions and are not as invasive to the environment as other sources of energy. This is why a zero energy building is sometimes called a green building. When designing a zero energy building, it is important to minimize energy consumption as much as possible. A zero energy building commonly utilizes energy efficient fixtures, appliances, and design. These reduce the energy required from the generators. Weather conditions may not always allow the building's generators to produce sufficient energy. In such instances, the building may acquire the extra energy it needs from the power grid. There are several advantages in a zero energy building. Using renewable energy reduces carbon emissions from fossil fuels. A green building may increase market value for environment conscious homeowners. Independence from the electrical grid also saves the owners from fluctuating energy costs.

On average, a zero energy building costs more than a conventional building of the same size. Some people argue that the accumulated energy bill will eventually outweigh the high initial cost of the building, however. Improvements in solar cell and turbine technology may also save on future building costs. Some communities assemble a cluster of zero energy houses. They form a de facto electrical grid that shares the energy, heating, and other energy functions. The proximity of the houses reduces transmission and distribution losses and minimizes the cost of constructing the generators. Localities that have no established electrical infrastructure often make use of this arrangement to create a stable energy source. In 2000, a German architectural firm built the first triple zero energy house. The house is able to generate more energy than it consumes, which it can store or transfer to an electric grid. In addition, the house has zero net carbon emissions. The final zero comes from the building materials; only recyclable materials were used during construction.

What Is a High-Rise?
In most of the worlds big cities, the demand for land and space far outweighs the amount of land and space that is actually available. A high-rise is a building that helps to ease the tension between these competing demands. The high-rise is characterized by its height usually at least twelve floors and its density. A building that takes up the space of but a modest apartment house or office building in terms of actual landmass can easily house hundreds of units if built straight up. When high-rises are used to house apartments or individual condo units, they are often referred to as multidwelling units, or MDUs. In Europe, they are also frequently called tower blocks. The regulations and restrictions for where high-rise housing units can be built, what sorts of safety precautions must be made for fire escapes and other evacuations, and the residential laws with which the building must comply vary by city. Some cities tightly regulate high-density housing, while others allow builders and rental companies much more freedom. High-rise structures are also popular settings for urban offices. While an office building in the suburbs may sit on a campus of several low-lying buildings, it is not uncommon for city office towers to reach 60 or 70 floors. High-rise offices are synonymous with skyscrapers. One of the tallest high-rises in the world is the Burj Khalifa in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. The Burj Khalifa is 2,717 feet (828 meters) tall, and contains 206 floors. Slightly shorter than the Burj Khalifa, another of the world's tallest building is the Taipei 101 tower in Taipei, Taiwan, which stands at 1,670 feet (509 meters), and held 101 floors. The benefits of high-rises, at least from the perspective of economy of space, are obvious. By maximizing vertical space, cities can accommodate tremendously more people than if they were limited to their horizontal landmass. More residents means more business and more consumption; more offices means more jobs and a more robust economy. Urban planners have tried to maximize vertical space with high-rises for centuries. Still, much of the efficiency of a true high-rise depends on certain technologies, many of which are more modern. Steel framing was the first tool to revolutionize the art of building high-rises. In order to sustain floor after floor after floor, a building must have a structure that can withstand a tremendous amount of weight, and will not be compromised by a relatively high center of gravity. Of course, for towering floors to be useful and accessible,

there must also be an easy way for people to get to them which generally requires an efficient elevator system. Some of the biggest criticisms of high-density buildings, whether they be offices or housing units, is evacuation safety. No matter how efficient a buildings elevators are, there is no realistic way for any elevator system to be able to carry every one of a towers many residents in a limited amount of time. Also, in most emergency situations, including fires, buildings lose power, and elevators do not operate. Even with emergency staircases, it is usually impossible for individuals on floors above seven or eight to be able to walk out of an occupied burning high-rise before it fills with smoke. High-rise disasters are relatively rare, and the efficiencies are generally believed to far outweigh the risks. Every major city in the world is home to a range of high-rises. High-rise living is often considered a quintessential city-living experience.

How Do I Become a Landscape Designer?

A landscape designer creates, plans and oversees the installation of aesthetically pleasing landscapes that are appropriate to a particular locale. To become a landscape designer, it is necessary to have a creative eye, a good design sense and, of course, an interest in gardening and horticulture. A landscaper must have a thorough knowledge of different varieties of plants, trees and shrubs, plant cultivation and plant care, soil types and climate conditions, and irrigation techniques and maintenance requirements. It will also help to know about various stone types, garden ornaments, paving blocks and other construction-related materials. Training to become a landscape designer can be obtained through a three year diploma or four-year degree program in landscape design. People with educational backgrounds in horticulture or agriculture can also take up this profession. Additional certification or licensing from a professional landscape architecture association will be necessary if you want to put up a shingle as a landscape architect. It is a good idea to research landscape design colleges and pick one that offers excellent teaching and practical experience. Accredited online colleges can be a convenient choice for someone who wants to become a landscape designer, but does not have the time or finances to attend a full-time program. The online learning is augmented with off-line landscaping study projects, although you won't get the type of learning interactions possible in an actual college environment. Landscape design courses generally cover aesthetics, design theory, color theory, computer aided design, drawing, botany, plant cultivation, and landscape design projects. It will help to brush up on your business and communication skills as well. Anyone who wants to become a landscape designer must be able to estimate and manage finances, market his or her services, and interact with clients, architects, engineers, landscape installation contractors, workers, sales representatives and a host of other people. Along with completing college projects, students should consider getting some real world work experience by working with an established landscape designer, landscape design firm, or by taking on some landscaping projects on their own. This will not only give you an idea of how to manage within set budgets and work completion time frames, but will also help you build contacts within the industry. You will also be able to build up your resume and portfolio.

Having a landscape design portfolio, particularly an online one, is important to get started in this career. Your portfolio should include design sketches and plans as well as photographs of completed projects. Testimonials from clients and from professionals in the landscape design business will be a definite plus. You can work as a freelance consultant, manage your own landscape contracting business, or work full time with a landscape design or architecture firm. It is important to keep on developing your artistic landscaping and garden design skills, and continue learning new things about the landscaping business. Attending trade shows, keeping tabs on current design trends, perusing landscape magazines and books, and seeing varied landscapes from different cultures will help you stay on top of the game.

How Do I Become an Architect Designer?

An architect is responsible for creating the designs and plans for a building. Architects take on a variety of projects and may work as a church architect, residential architect, or in a more modern field on business designs. Architects are constantly looking for new ways to expand designs so they are both functional and beautiful. Several years of education along with an internship and testing is required to become an architect designer. Those who consider this job should enjoy design, math, and problem solving. Before setting out to become an architect designer, it's important for an interested person to decide what he wants to design. A typical architecture program at a college will cover most buildings and a student interested in building design, whether for businesses or homes, will enjoy this program. A student interested in landscape architecture, however, should pursue a degree specially designed for a career as a landscape architect. While the requirements are roughly the same for both degrees, the classes and skills learned differ. Pursuing a degree in the field of interest is the key to a successful career. To become an architect designer, a student must first complete a professional degree at a college accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Bureau (NAAB). This degree program takes about five years to complete. Those interested in special areas, such as solar design or hospital design, may earn another degree in these areas. After graduation from college, an internship is required. Typically a student pursuing a degree to become an architect designer will start his internship during his fourth or fifth year of college. He can then continue on after graduation for the rest of his three-year internship. At any point after the degree and internship requirements are met, the student take his licensing exam. Once a student successfully passes his licensing exam, the architect is then officially licensed and legally allowed to take on jobs as an architect. Licensing is required regardless of the field or area of work the architect wishes to work in. To become an architect designer, the interested person must also check with his state or jurisdiction about local licensing laws. Maintaining the license and keeping it up to date is required to practice as an architect. Each state has different requirements for maintaining an architecture license.