Sustainability role of tall buildings

Tall buildings have a strategic role to play in the social, economic and environmental sustainability of the city. By their very nature, tall buildings can help stem urban sprawl through their efficient use of land and by encouraging a mix of uses within an adaptable layout that is flexible enough to accommodate changing needs and market demands. At the more technical level, every opportunity should be taken to optimise the buildings green credentials so as to meet the city's sustainability objectives in relation to building performance, materials, landscape works, public realm, waste/water management and construction methods. Tall building design should from its concept, demonstrate how issues of sustainable and energy efficient design have been considered. In terms of building performance, it is incumbent that all applications for tall buildings embrace sustainable practices including green building technologies where appropriate to do so. Consideration should be given to energy consumption during demolition, construction and throughout its lifespan including thermal loss and solar gain.