This book explores the concepts and practicalities that lead to sustainable construction. It breaks new ground by providing the reader with the underlying principles of how to build sustainably and then assesses many of the tools required for the task. From energy to materials and from procurement to operation, all aspects play their part in turning a theoretically sustainable building project into a reality. There are many guidelines for the designer on how to maximise the sustainability of buildings but this resource text supplements these by focusing on the construction and operational aspects of sustainable buildings, as well as some of the more fundamental design-related considerations. ? Offers an excellent text for those learning to construct, design and operate sustainable buildings. ? Covers the drivers for sustainable construction, definitions, historical impacts, climate change and global, regional and individual responses. ? enables the construction professional to achieve optimum solutions, both in design, process and the aftercare of buildings. ? evaluates the effectiveness of different renewable technologies and provides guidance on the practicalities of their use. ? Alerts the reader to future trends in this field.