Green architecture, also known as sustainable architecture or eco-friendly architecture, refers to the practice of designing buildings and structures that minimize their environmental impact while maximizing efficiency, resourcefulness, and occupant well-being. This approach encompasses various principles and strategies aimed at reducing energy consumption, conserving natural resources, minimizing waste, and creating healthier living and working environments.

Key features of green architecture may include:

1. Energy efficiency: Incorporating design elements that reduce energy consumption, such as efficient insulation, passive solar design, high-performance windows, and energy-efficient appliances and systems.
2. Sustainable materials: Using renewable, recyclable, and locally sourced materials to minimize environmental impact and reduce carbon emissions associated with transportation.
3. Water conservation: Implementing water-saving features like low-flow fixtures, rainwater harvesting systems, graywater recycling, and drought-resistant landscaping.
4. Site optimization: Designing buildings to take advantage of natural features like sunlight, prevailing winds, and natural landscaping to reduce reliance on artificial heating, cooling, and lighting.
5. Indoor environmental quality: Prioritizing factors that contribute to occupant health and comfort, such as ample natural light, good ventilation, low-toxicity materials, and indoor air quality management systems.
6. Waste reduction: Designing for deconstruction and recycling, minimizing construction waste, and implementing strategies for recycling and composting in building operations.
7. Green certifications: Pursuing certifications like LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design), BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method), or Green Star to verify and demonstrate a building’s sustainability performance.

By integrating these principles into architectural design and construction practices, green architecture aims to create buildings that not only have a reduced environmental footprint but also contribute to a more resilient, resource-efficient, and healthier built environment for present and future generations.