Energy-efficient design for sustainable housing development

• Published in: Journal of cleaner production 2014-02, Vol.65, p.380-388
• Main Authors: Roufechaei, Kamand M., Hassan Abu Bakar, Abu, Tabassi, Amin Akhavan
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Animal, plant and microbial ecology; Applied ecology; Applied sciences; Biological and medical sciences; Conservation, protection and management of environment and wildlife; Design; Energy efficiency; Environment and sustainable development; Esfahan; Exact sciences and technology; Fundamental and applied biological sciences. Psychology; Iran; Pollution; Sustainable housing development
• ISSN: 0959-6526; 1879-1786
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jclepro.2013.09.015

The housing industry has been accused of causing environmental problems ranging from excessive consumption energy consumption to pollution of the surrounding environment. Research on the impact of energy efficiency parameters in minimizing consumption to achieve sustainable housing development is already underway. This study investigates the potential link between energy efficiency parameters and three dimensions of sustainable housing development (environmental, social and economic), in particular Esfahan, Iran. The research is based on a collection of literature from research questionnaires and surveys and was initially conducted by sending 130 survey questionnaires to certain nominated consultant firms in Esfahan. After a two-month period, 41.5% of the survey was returned and deemed usable. The analysis methods were mainly descriptive with a regression analysis and a co-relational study was employed as the type of investigation. Assessment of the energy-efficiency parameters in the design phase of housing projects revealed that there was a strong correlation between the three dimensions of sustainability in housing development practices. The study also provides some recommendations for both government and construction companies to increase their participation in sustainable housing development progress, particularly in energy-efficient design, in the country. •It assesses energy-efficiency parameters in design phase of housing projects.•It evaluates the relationship of energy-efficiency and SD in housing.•Five factors founded as the most effective design parameters of energy efficiency.•The energy-efficiency parameters show strong relationship with SD in housing.