Oct 15 2008
Sustainable development uses materials in a way that aims to meet human needs while preserving the environment in the present, and also in the future. These building practices, coupled with emerging technologies, are transforming the design and construction industries. Materials for Sustainable Sites (John Wiley & Sons; October 2008; $80.00) is the complete guide to the evaluation, selection and use of sustainable materials in the landscape that features strategies to minimize environmental and human health impacts of conventional site construction materials as well as green materials. This book is intended for all professionals who design, specify, educate, or regulate sustainable sites. An online continuing education course based on Materials for Sustainable Sites, will also be offered on Wiley's Continuing Professional Education website, which is scheduled to launch Fall 2008.
Divided into two parts, the book provides detailed information on construction materials for sustainable sites. Part I introduces tools, techniques, ideologies and resources for evaluating, sourcing and specifying sustainable site materials. Part II devotes a chapter to each of the major types of site construction materials - both conventional and emerging green materials. Each chapter discusses basic attributes of the material, and environmental and human health impacts during all phases of its life cycle. Materials for Sustainable Sites then provides detailed discussion of strategies and technologies to reduce these impacts, and current standards, resources, and items for consideration during specification of these materials and products. Materials covered include:
- Concrete
- Earthen Materials
- Brick Masonry
- Asphalt Pavement
- Biobased Materials
- Aggregates and Stone
- Wood and Wood Products
- Metals
- Plastics and Rubber
Sustainability represents a balance that accommodates human needs without diminishing the health and productivity of natural systems. Materials for Sustainable Sites takes the approach that no effort to reduce environmental and human health impacts is too small, even though larger steps may be preferable. Professionals and educators in landscape architecture, architecture, civil engineering, urban design, and construction management will find this information essential to assist them in material and product selection and evaluation.