Definitions - v

A general term that describes environmentally-conscious design techniques in the field of architecture. Sustainable architecture is framed by the larger discussion of sustainability and the pressing economic and political issues of our world. In the broad context, sustainable architecture seeks to minimize the negative environmental impact of buildings by enhancing efficiency and moderation in the use of materials, energy, and development space. Most simply, the idea of sustainability, or ecological design, is to ensure that our actions and decisions today do not inhibit the opportunities of future generations.

This term can be used to describe an energy and ecologically conscious approach to the design of the built environment.

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The process where worms feed slowly on decomposing materials (e.g. vegetable scraps) in a controlled environment to produce nutrient-rich soil.

A wind generator design where the rotating shaft is perpendicular to the ground, and the cups or blades rotate parallel to the ground.

A wind turbine with the axis or main shaft mounted vertically, or perpendicular to the earth's surface. This type of turbine does not need to be turned to face the wind - the wind always blows across it. Types include Savonius and Darrius.

The evolution of a new species from a group separated from the original species by a geographic barrier.

Rain which fall in the sky but evaporates before it reaches the ground.

Material that can be broken down into simpler substances (elements and compounds) by bacteria or other decomposers. Paper and most organic wastes such as animal manure are biodegradable.

Virgin paper is paper that contains no recycled content and is made directly from the pulp of trees or, alternatively, cotton.

The biophysical environment is the symbiosis between the physical environment and the biological life forms within the environment, and includes all variables that comprise the Earth's biosphere.

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The voltage lost along a length of wire or a conductor due to the internal resistance of that conductor. The voltage drop is calculated using Ohms Law.