Investigation of net-zero buildings: Architectural features and their efficacy in lowering pollution and energy consumption

  • Ejiga Opaluwa orcid

    Department of Architecture, Nile University of Nigeria, Abuja 900001, Nigeria
  • Fatima Vatsa Haruna orcid

    Department of Architecture, Nile University of Nigeria, Abuja 900001, Nigeria
  • Tenigbade Odu orcid

    Department of Architecture, Nile University of Nigeria, Abuja 900001, Nigeria
  • Opeyemi Adeola Asaju orcid

    Department of Architecture, Caleb University Imota, Lagos 100245, Nigeria
  • Patrick Chukwuemeke Uwajeh orcid

    Department of Architecture, Nile University of Nigeria, Abuja 900001, Nigeria
  • Ololade Ibidolapo Olawepo orcid

    UrbanRoots Plastic Nigeria Ltd, Abuja 900001, Nigeria
  • Job Momoh orcid

    Property and Surveying, School of Construction, London South Bank University, London SE1 0AA, UK
  • Ibrahim Umar orcid

    Department of Architecture, Nile University of Nigeria, Abuja 900001, Nigeria
Article ID: 4064
DOI: https://doi.org/10.59400/be4064
Keywords: architectural features, carbon emission, energy consumption, net-zero buildings, pollution

Abstract

The pressing global need for sustainable development has amplified the architectural emphasis on net-zero buildings, which aim to align energy use with renewable energy production while reducing environmental harm. This research examines the design elements of net-zero buildings and assesses their effectiveness in lowering pollution and energy use. Utilizing the literature review method, the study compiles academic literature, case studies, and technical documents to pinpoint essential design strategies such as passive ventilation, optimal building orientation, high-performance insulation, renewable energy integration, water recycling systems, and the incorporation of biophilic design principles. In addition, the review incorporates broader considerations related to advanced material innovations, smart‑building controls, and climate‑responsive architectural practices. The review also provides a more detailed discussion of performance outcome of these strategies across different climatic and urban settings, bringing to light both their success and the challenges associated with their implementation. The findings demonstrate that net‑zero buildings substantially reduce operational energy requirements and contribute to lowering greenhouse gas emissions; however, issues such as economic feasibility, long‑term maintenance demands, and context‑specific adaptability continue to pose barriers. Furthermore, the study emphasizes the importance of multidisciplinary collaboration and continuous performance monitoring to ensure sustained efficiency. The research concludes by underscoring the need for integrated design processes, supportive policies, and ongoing technological advancements to achieve scalable, resilient, and environmentally responsible net‑zero developments.

Published
2026-03-26
How to Cite
Opaluwa, E., Haruna, F. V., Odu, T., Asaju, O. A., Uwajeh, P. C., Olawepo, O. I., Momoh, J., & Umar, I. (2026). Investigation of net-zero buildings: Architectural features and their efficacy in lowering pollution and energy consumption. Building Engineering, 4(1). https://doi.org/10.59400/be4064
Issue
Vol. 4 No. 1 (2026)
Section
Review

Copyright (c) 2026 Ejiga Opaluwa, Fatima Vatsa Haruna, Tenigbade Odu, Opeyemi Adeola Asaju, Patrick Chukwuemeke Uwajeh, Ololade Ibidolapo Olawepo, Job Momoh, Ibrahim Umar

Creative Commons License

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.

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