Green glossary

CCBPs - Coal combustion byproducts, including flyash, offer environmental advantages by reducing energy investment in the processing of virgin materials, conserving virgin materials and allaying pollution.

Daylighting - It is the use of the diffuse light of an overcast sky, which is both soft and smooth in both temperature and color. Its use reduces amount of artificial light and electricity needed while creating a more enjoyable interior.

Durability - A durable building provides a long time to amortize the environmental and economic costs incurred in building. Durable products and materials will not need to be replaced or repaired as frequently, so the raw materials, energy and environmental impacts invested in them can be spread out over time.

Flyash - Flyash concrete is residue from the combustion of ground or powdered coal. It can be used to improve the performance and quality of concrete, making it stronger and less susceptible to corrosion.

IAQ - Indoor air quality is caused by indoor pollution sources that release gases or particles into the air. Common indoor pollutants include oil, gas, kerosene, coal, cleaning products and central heating and cooling systems.

IEQ - Indoor environmental quality addresses the issues of how we feel in a space. It encompasses air quality, thermal comfort, ventilation, lighting and noise.

LCA - Life cycle assessment is an objective process to evaluate the environmental burdens associated with a product, process or activity by identifying energy and materials used and wastes released to the environment, and to evaluate and implement opportunities to effect environmental improvements.

LEDs - Light emitting diode lightbulbs do not heat up like incandescent bulbs. They also last longer and are more energy efficient

LEED - The Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Green Building Rating System is the internationally accepted benchmark for the design, construction and operation of green buildings. It promotes sustainability by recognizing sustainable site development, water savings, energy efficiency, materials selection and indoor environmental quality.

Pervious - Pervious materials, such as gravel or crushed stone, permit water to enter the ground by virtue of their porous nature, helping to decrease runoff.

PV - A photovoltaic cell converts visible light into a direct current. PV cells are an integral part of solar-electric energy systems.

SBS - When a number of people in an office or other building become sick from an untraceable source, it is known as "sick building syndrome." SBS can be caused by poor ventilation or heating systems, among other causes.

Straw bale - Straw bale construction uses baled straw from wheat, oats, barley and other grains in walls covered by stucco. Straw bale is a waste product farmers do not till under the soil but sell as animal supply or landscape bedding. It is now being used as a low-cost alternative for constructing highly insulating walls.

SIPs - Structural insulated panels are widely used alternative construction materials for insulation. SIPs are made of a thick layer of foam pressed between two layers of board, providing a better overall air tightness than conventional walls.

VOCs - Moving into a new home or remodeling a space can expose inhabitants to abnormally high levels of volatile organic compounds. Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) include toxic gases can contribute to cancer, asthma, fatigue and other ailments.

(Shanghai Daily May 18, 2009)