This paper outlines the energy consumption and greenhouse gas emission trends in the residential and commercial sectors in Japan. The results showed that the increase in residential energy consumption in Japan is mainly caused by the widespread use of heating equipment, hot water supply apparatus, and other household electrical appliances.

This paper reviews the literature concerning the energy savings that can be achieved through optimized building shape and form, improved building envelopes, improved efficiencies of individual energyusing devices, alternative energy using systems in buildings, and through enlightened occupant behavior and operation of building systems. Cost information is also provided.

The Fourth Assessment Report (AR4) of the Nobel Peace Prize-winning Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has served as a landmark document to influence humanity

Urbanization has a dynamic relationship with the physical environment. Urban and rural environments differ substantially in their microclimate. These climatic differences are primarily caused by the alteration on the surface of earth by human constructions and the release of artificially created energy into the environment. Inadvertent climate changes induced by urbanization are well documented.

Simmering resentment against major developments in rural Goa-famous for its exotic beaches and idyllic rural countryside-has exploded in protests against allegedly corrupt local administrators.

Meteorology plays an important role in the design, alignment and orientation of buildings, streets and urban colonies. Mitigative measures to ameliorate adverse impacts in tropical climates are suggested.