From thermodynamics to fluid dynamics to computational chemistry, this book sets forth the scientific principles underlying the need for sustainable design, explaining not just the "hows" of sustainable design and green engineering, but also the "whys." Moreover, it provides readers with the scientific principles needed to guide their own sustainable design decisions. Throughout the book, the authors draw from their experience in architecture, civil engineering, environmental engineering, planning, and public policy in order to build an understanding of the interdisciplinary nature of sustainable design.

Written to enable readers to take a more scientific approach to sustainable design, the book offers many practical features, including:

Case studies presenting the authors′ firsthand accounts of actual green projects
Lessons learned from Duke University′s Smart House Program that demonstrate the concepts and techniques discussed in the book
Exercises that encourage readers to use their newfound knowledge to solve green design problems
Figures, tables, and sidebars illustrating key concepts and summarizing important points
For architects, designers, and engineers, this book enables them to not only implement green design methods, but also to choose these methods based on science. With its many examples, case studies, and exercises, the book is also an ideal textbook for students in civil and environmental engineering, construction, and architectural engineering.