ADIGRAT UNIVERSITY

DEPARTMENT OF ARCHITECTURE
GENERAL ECOLOGY

ABEL WELDEGEBRIAL
ID : 05927/10
1 Define the word ecology?
 Ecology refers to the scientific study of the
relationships between organisms and their
environment.
 It involves examining how living organisms interact
with each other and with their physical surroundings,
including the interactions between different species,
their habitats, and the flow of energy and nutrients
within ecosystems.
 Ecology also explores the impact of human activities
on the environment and the consequences for
biodiversity and ecosystem health
2. What are the main principles of ecology?

 1. Interdependence: Ecological systems are interconnected, and organisms within these systems rely
on each other for survival and reproduction. Changes in one component of the ecosystem can have
ripple effects on other organisms and the overall balance of the system.
 2. Energy flow: Energy flows through ecosystems in a one-way direction, typically starting with the
sun as the primary source. Producers (such as plants) convert sunlight into chemical energy through
photosynthesis, which is then transferred to consumers (such as animals) through feeding
relationships.
 3. Nutrient cycling: Nutrients, such as carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus, are essential for the growth
and functioning of organisms. Ecological systems have processes that recycle and redistribute these
nutrients, ensuring their availability for different organisms and maintaining ecosystem stability.
 4. Biodiversity: Biodiversity refers to the variety of species and their genetic diversity within an
ecosystem. It is crucial for ecosystem resilience, as diverse communities are better able to adapt to
environmental changes and provide essential ecosystem services.
 5. Succession: Ecological succession is the process of change in the composition and structure of an
ecosystem over time. It involves the colonization of new species and the replacement of existing
ones, leading to the development of more complex and stable communities.
 6. Adaptation: Organisms have evolved various adaptations to survive and reproduce in their specific
environments. These adaptations can include physical characteristics, behaviors, or physiological
processes that enhance an organism's fitness and ability to thrive in its ecological niche.
3.Why is Important to Study Ecology?

 Studying ecology is important for several reasons:

 1. Understanding the natural world: Ecology provides insights into the intricate relationships
between organisms and their environment. It helps us comprehend the complexity and beauty
of the natural world, from the interactions between species to the functioning of ecosystems.
 2. Conservation and environmental management: Ecology plays a crucial role in informing
conservation efforts and environmental management practices. By studying ecological
processes, scientists can identify vulnerable species, assess the impacts of human activities on
ecosystems, and develop strategies to protect and restore habitats.
 3. Sustainable resource management: Ecology provides the foundation for sustainable resource
management. By understanding how ecosystems function and how they are impacted by
human activities, we can make informed decisions about the use of natural resources, such as
fisheries, forests, and water sources, to ensure their long-term viability.
 4. Climate change and global challenges: Ecology is essential for understanding and addressing
global challenges like climate change. By studying the impacts of climate change on ecosystems
and species distributions, ecologists can contribute to developing mitigation and adaptation
strategies to minimize the negative effects on biodiversity and human well-being.
 5. Human health: Ecology has implications for human health. By studying the interactions
between ecosystems, wildlife, and human populations, scientists can better understand the
spread of diseases, identify potential risks, and develop strategies for disease prevention and
control.
4.Define Ecological architecture.
 Ecological architecture, also known as sustainable or green architecture, is an
approach to designing and constructing buildings that prioritize environmental
sustainability and minimize negative impacts on the natural world.
 It involves integrating ecological principles and strategies into the entire lifecycle
of a building, from site selection and design to construction, operation, and
eventual demolition or reuse.
 The key principles of ecological architecture include:
 1. Energy efficiency: Designing buildings to minimize energy consumption
through efficient insulation, ventilation, lighting, and the use of renewable energy
sources like solar or wind power.
 2. Resource conservation: Incorporating strategies to reduce water consumption,
optimize material usage, and promote recycling and waste management
practices.
 3. Site and landscape integration: Considering the surrounding environment,
climate, and ecosystem when designing a building to minimize disruption to
natural habitats, preserve biodiversity, and enhance the overall ecological
balance.
5.List down Pillars of Ecological
Architecture…

 The pillars of ecological architecture, also known as sustainable architecture or green architecture,
include:
 1. Energy Efficiency: Designing buildings to minimize energy consumption by utilizing passive
design strategies, such as proper insulation, natural lighting, and ventilation. Incorporating energy-
efficient technologies and renewable energy sources like solar panels or geothermal systems also
contribute to reducing the environmental impact.
 2. Water Conservation: Implementing water-saving measures like rainwater harvesting, greywater
recycling, and efficient plumbing systems to minimize water usage and promote sustainable water
management.
 3. Material Selection: Choosing environmentally friendly and sustainable materials for construction,
such as recycled or reclaimed materials, low-impact and non-toxic materials, and those with a low
carbon footprint. This reduces resource depletion and minimizes waste generation.
 4. Site Planning and Landscaping: Designing buildings in harmony with the surrounding
environment, considering factors like site orientation, natural topography, and vegetation.
Incorporating green spaces, native plants, and sustainable landscaping practices can enhance
biodiversity, reduce heat island effect, and improve air quality.
 5. Waste Reduction and Recycling: Implementing strategies to minimize construction waste and
promote recycling and reuse of materials. Incorporating systems for waste management, including
composting and recycling facilities, helps reduce the environmental impact of the building
throughout its lifecycle.
Study an internationally recognized ecological
building

 One internationally recognized ecological building is the Bullitt Center located in Seattle, Washington, USA.
The Bullitt Center is a six-story office building that is designed to be one of the greenest commercial buildings
in the world. It showcases several ecological principles and sustainable features:
 1. Net-zero energy: The Bullitt Center generates as much energy as it consumes through its rooftop solar
panels. It utilizes energy-efficient systems and technologies to minimize energy demand and maximize
renewable energy production.
 2. Water conservation: The building collects rainwater and treats it for various uses, including flushing toilets
and irrigation. It also features water-efficient fixtures and a composting toilet system to minimize water
consumption and wastewater generation.
 3. Sustainable materials: The Bullitt Center is constructed using locally sourced, non-toxic, and sustainable
materials. It incorporates FSC-certified wood, recycled content, and low-emission materials to reduce its
environmental impact.
 4. Passive design: The building is designed to maximize natural daylight and ventilation, reducing the need for
artificial lighting and mechanical cooling or heating. It features large windows, shading devices, and energy-
efficient insulation to optimize energy performance.
 5. Green roof: The Bullitt Center has a green roof covered with vegetation, which helps reduce storm water
runoff, provides insulation, and creates habitat for wildlife. It also contributes to the building's overall energy
efficiency.
 6. Healthy indoor environment: The building prioritizes occupant health and comfort by using non-toxic
materials, providing ample daylight, and ensuring good indoor air quality through efficient ventilation systems.
 The Bullitt Center serves as a model for sustainable and ecological building practices, demonstrating how
buildings can be designed and operated to minimize their environmental footprint while providing a healthy
and productive space for occupants.