An engineer chooses to use a composite material that incorporates concrete
and recycled glass for the floors of a new building. This is an example of:
OA. resource shortages
OB. green design
O C. global warming
D. cost-saving construction
The Correct answer and Explanation is:
The correct answer is OB. green design.
Explanation:
Green design, also known as sustainable design or eco-design, refers to the practice of designing buildings, products, or systems with special consideration for the environmental impacts. The objective of green design is to reduce the ecological footprint by conserving resources, minimizing waste, and using materials that are eco-friendly and sustainable. In this case, the engineer is using a composite material made of concrete and recycled glass, which aligns with the principles of green design. Recycling glass and incorporating it into construction materials like concrete helps reduce waste, lowers demand for virgin materials, and lessens the environmental impact associated with traditional construction practices.
Benefits of Green Design:
- Environmental Sustainability: Green design helps conserve natural resources. By using recycled glass, the engineer is diverting waste from landfills and reducing the need for new raw materials, such as sand, which is a finite resource used in making glass and concrete.
- Energy Efficiency: The production of recycled materials often requires less energy compared to new materials. Incorporating recycled glass into the composite material may contribute to lower energy consumption during the manufacturing process.
- Improved Air Quality: Traditional building materials, such as concrete, may release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) or other pollutants into the environment. Using recycled materials can help reduce these emissions and promote cleaner air.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Although green design is often perceived as more expensive, using recycled materials like glass can result in cost savings. The engineer may save money by reducing material costs and lowering waste disposal fees.
In conclusion, the engineer’s decision to use a composite material incorporating concrete and recycled glass demonstrates a commitment to green design, emphasizing environmental sustainability and resource conservation.