1 SUSTAINABLE BUILDING TECHNOLOGIES FOR HOT AND HUMID CLIMATES

Sustainable building is an abstract and broad concept encompassing many issues and thinking, with the aim to minimise adverse environmental impacts and promote resources eco-efficiency. In order to apply and achieve sustainable building in hot and humid climates, efforts must be put into understanding the local climate, and integrating appropriate building technologies into the architectural and urban designs. This research paper explains the basic concepts of sustainable building, describes the principles of building climatic design for hot and humid climates, and discusses the important considerations for sustainable building technologies. With reference to the conditions in Hong Kong and Hangzhou, the key factors affecting the development of sustainable buildings are analysed and the strategies to promote sustainable building practices and effective technologies are examined. As many cities in China will continue to expand and grow, the building and construction sector has major impacts on the sustainable development of our society. It is hoped that by mutually exchanging ideas across disciplines and cities, a better understanding of the long-term sustainability goals in building design could be developed, and more opportunities for joint efforts and close cooperation would be created. 1