From a ‘garden city’ to ‘city in a garden’ vision, Singapore’s push to go green extends to construction as well, with the introduction of Green Mark certification scheme in January 2005 to evaluate the environmental friendliness of infrastructure assets.

A project which has recently been awarded the Green Mark Platinum Zero Energy certification by the Building and Construction Authority (BCA) is The Greenhouse at Dulwich College Singapore by Education in Motion (EiM). The certification recognises the building’s exemplary performance in health, intelligence and maintainability.

Designed by award-winning architectural firm, DP Architects and its specialist arm in sustainable design, DP Sustainable Design (DPSD), The Greenhouse will be Singapore’s first net-zero international school building when it unveils later this year. The seven-storey structure aligns with EiM’s vision of pioneering education for a sustainable future and contributes to Singapore’s Green Building Masterplan, demonstrating the collective commitment to ambitious sustainability standards.

Extensive renewable energy production

The Greenhouse’s architectural design, construction materials, and functionality contribute to its net-zero energy achievement. By leveraging extensive on-site renewable energy installations, such as Building Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV) and kinetic floor tiles, the building generates more than 100 per cent energy savings, reducing approximately 216 tonnes of CO2 emissions. This is equivalent to powering 122 four-room HDB flats. On top of that, the kinetic floor tiles linked to a screen in the lobby shows the amount of energy that is produced when students walk across them.

Superior energy efficiency

Superior energy efficiency is achieved through the building’s design, incorporating light shafts and a central atrium to optimise natural light and ventilation, thereby reducing the need for artificial lighting and air-conditioning systems. Highly energy-efficient technologies and IoT sensors linked to a Smart Digital Twin platform further enhance building performance and reduce energy consumption. Ang Kian Seng, Group Director of BCA’s Environmental Sustainability Group, commends The Greenhouse’s efficient operation and maintenance through building analytics and predictive maintenance.

Outstanding resource optimisation

The net-zero building prioritises resource optimisation by using sustainable materials like low-carbon concrete and recycled wood and plastic for interior design and furniture. To reduce water consumption, efficient sanitary fittings are employed, and a rainwater harvesting system collects and recycles rainwater for irrigation.

Remarkable health and well-being enhancements

Smart indoor air quality sensors monitor and enhance the learning environment’s air quality. The building’s focus on health and well-being ensures occupants have access to nature throughout the premises, with greenery and natural elements integrated into various spaces, including the step atrium and roof garden.

An edible ‘forest’ on the roof allows students to forage for fruits and experience natural food production. Food waste will be managed through vermi-composting and an insect farm, with black soldier flies providing nutrition for fish in the pond, where the water is used for irrigation. This innovative educational exposure promotes real-world problem-solving and student engagement with the building.

Long-term sustainable commitment

In addition to The Greenhouse, EiM has released an Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Report for the second consecutive year. This demonstrates the international education institution’s commitment to sustainable practices across its schools and operations. In fact, five schools under EiM have achieved green building certifications, and notable progress has been made in optimising ESG governance.

Renders courtesy of Education in Motion

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