Thursday 15 June 2006

Greenspace Research is an applied, interdisciplinary Internet-based project focused on optimising use of natural resources and the dynamic design and management of green buildings. The project is run by UHI Lews Castle College and is building UHI research capacity in the energy sector.

Our current activities are focused on Models, Maps and Sensors subprojects. In the Models project, we are working with US partner Green Building Studio on an Internet-based building energy analysis modelling service. The service is oriented towards architects and construction industry energy professionals, and has particular emphasis on the early stage of design when the most significant energy decisions are often made.

In the Maps subproject, we see Carbon Emission GIS Maps delivered using GoogleMaps as a powerful vehicle for engaging people and communities in the work required to reduce carbon emissions in their local area. The maps are intended to form the foundation for a low carbon built environment Web portal focused on UK-wide local action planning to reduce carbon emissions.

Finally we see low-cost wireless enabled built environment sensor networks as critical tools for the design of energy efficient, adaptive buildings. We see uses for smart sensor networks over the whole building lifecycle, from site selection at the pre-design stage through design, construction, operations and de-commissioning.

We actively encourage contributions on our 'Low Carbon Buildings Wiki' from experts and lay-people interested in these important issues: