Systeman assemblage of parts that interact in a series of relationships to form a complex whole, which serves particular functions of purposes.

Systems Thinkingunderstanding the world, including the built environment, as a series of relationships in which all parts influence many other parts.

Open SystemIn an open system, necessary resources are renewed and exchanged on a regular basis.

Closed SystemA closed system maintains itself on a limited amount of resources that are entrenched in that particular system.

Building Envelopethe exterior surface of a building - the walls, windows, roof, and floor; also referred to as the building shell.

InsulationFormaldehyde-free™ fiber glass building insulationSpray FoamPolyiso foam boardMineral wool products For commercial and residential projects, efficient building insulation can offer outstanding thermal and acoustical performance, which can help maximize LEED® credits and save money on heating and cooling bills.

Efficient Windows

Efficient Windows

feedback loop information flows within a system that allow the system to self-organize.

This type of feedback loop is called a negative feedback loop because embedded in the system's response to a change is a Signal for the system to stop changing when that response is no longer needed.

Negative feedback loops enable a system to self correct and stay within a particular range of function or performance. Thus, they keep systems stable.

feedback loop information flows within a system that allow the system to self-organize.

Positive feedback loops, on the other hand, are self-reinforcing: the stimulus causes an effect, and the effect produces even more of that same effect. Population growth is a positive feedback loop. The more babies who are born, the more people there will be in the population to have more babies. Therefore, the population can be expected to rise until acted upon by another force, such as an epidemic or shortage of resources.

Heat Island Effect the absorption of heat by hardscapes, such as dark, nonreflective pavement and buildings, and its radiation to surrounding areas. Particularly in urban areas, other sources may include vehicle exhaust, air-conditioners, and street equipment; reduced airflow from tall buildings and narrow streets exacerbates the effect.

leverage pointa point in a system where a small intervention can yield large changes “By valuing not only financial capital but also natural capital and human capital, existing systems and structures can lead to sustainability.”

leverage pointa point in a system where a small intervention can yield large changes “By valuing not only financial capital but also natural capital and human capital, existing systems and structures can lead to sustainability.”

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qAxj6WvLnWk

Integrated Process an approach to design and operations that brings team members together to work collaboratively on all of the project's systems to find synergistic solutions that support ever greater levels of sustainability. Water Decisions and DesignsHydrologists, civil engineers, mechanical engineers, and landscape designers

Potable water use, irrigation needs, wastewater disposal, and stormwater management Conventional Design – design decisions are made independently in “isolation”

Integrated Design – design decisions are made as a team in “collaboration”

Green buildings Save energyUse less waterGenerate less wasteProvide more healthful, more comfortable indoor environments