5 Find out about another environmentally friendly building and write a description of it. Include the following information: • Say where the building is and who designed it. • Describe the building. • Explain why it is environmentally friendly.
Ответы
One notable environmentally friendly building is the Bosco Verticale, or Vertical Forest, located in Milan, Italy. Designed by the Italian architect Stefano Boeri, this innovative project is a pioneering example of sustainable urban architecture.
The Bosco Verticale consists of two residential towers, standing at 111 and 76 meters tall, respectively. What sets these towers apart is the extensive vegetation integrated into their structure. The façade of each tower is covered with more than 20,000 trees, 5,000 shrubs, and 11,000 plants, creating a stunning vertical forest that changes with the seasons. The selection of plants is diverse and includes a mix of evergreen and deciduous species, contributing to both the aesthetic appeal and ecological functionality of the building.
The environmental friendliness of the Bosco Verticale lies in its multifaceted approach to sustainability. Firstly, the greenery on the towers acts as a natural air filter, reducing pollution and improving air quality in the surrounding area. Additionally, the trees provide shade, reducing the need for air conditioning during the hot summer months, thus lowering energy consumption. The greenery also serves as a habitat for birds and insects, promoting biodiversity in the urban environment.
Furthermore, the Vertical Forest contributes to the reduction of the urban heat island effect by creating a microclimate around the building. The integration of green spaces in an urban setting helps counteract the heat generated by concrete and asphalt, fostering a more pleasant and temperate environment.
In terms of water conservation, the Bosco Verticale features an advanced rainwater harvesting system, which is used to irrigate the plants. This not only minimizes the building's demand on the municipal water supply but also showcases an intelligent use of available resources.
Stefano Boeri's Bosco Verticale is a testament to the possibility of harmonizing urban development with nature. By combining aesthetics, functionality, and environmental consciousness, this building stands as a beacon for sustainable architecture, demonstrating that cities can be both thriving metropolises and green spaces that contribute positively to the planet's health.