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Masa Noguchi

The University of Melbourne

Dr. Masa Noguchi is an Associate Professor of Environmental Design at the Faculty of Architecture, Building, and Planning, University of Melbourne, specializing in Environmental Experience Design (EXD) to advance energy efficiency, affordability, and occupant wellbeing within the built environment. As the visionary leader of the ZEMCH Network, he spearheads global research and innovation in Zero Energy Mass Custom Homes (ZEMCH), driving sustainable housing development worldwide. A Chartered Engineer, Environmentalist, and Technological Product Designer, Dr. Noguchi possesses deep expertise in mass customization systems that deliver high-quality, affordable, and sustainable housing solutions. His groundbreaking work includes designing Canada’s first near-net-zero energy modular home, the EcoTerra House, and leading transformative mass custom housing projects in Scotland and Brazil. Passionate about fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, he promotes knowledge exchange through international conferences, design workshops, and academic programs. Dr. Noguchi is dedicated to creating built environments that are socially inclusive, economically viable, environmentally responsible, and profoundly human-centric.

Masa Noguchi

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Latest work with IntechOpen by Masa Noguchi

The pursuit of sustainable built environments has become a strategic global priority in addressing the complex interplay of social, economic, environmental, and human development challenges outlined in the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Accelerating urbanization, climate risks, and widening inequality are placing unprecedented strain on cities and communities, demanding a fundamental shift in how we design, deliver, and manage the built environment. Sustainable built environments are central to achieving key Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)—particularly SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), SDG 3 (Good Health and Wellbeing), SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), and SDG 13 (Climate Action). Built infrastructure must minimize environmental impact, maximize energy efficiency, and enhance the quality of life while placing people at the center, ensuring inclusivity, resilience, and adaptability to future needs. A leading example of this approach is the Zero Energy Mass Custom Home (ZEMCH) initiative. ZEMCH promotes the delivery of affordable, high-performance housing that meets both individual and community needs. By combining mass customization with energy-efficient design and renewable energy technologies, ZEMCH homes aim to achieve net-zero energy consumption, reduce their carbon footprint, and enhance occupant wellbeing. Equity and accessibility must also be embedded in the built environment, ensuring that all individuals, regardless of income, age, or ability, can access safe, functional, and dignified spaces. Ultimately, sustainable development is not only about constructing greener buildings but also about shaping environments that foster social cohesion, environmental stewardship, and long-term wellbeing. Achieving this requires cross-sector collaboration, meaningful community engagement, and the integration of sustainability principles throughout the entire lifecycle of the built environment, transforming it into a catalyst for positive change for both people and society.

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Sustainable Built Environment for People and Society IntechOpen
Sustainable Built Environment for Peopl... Edited by Masa Noguchi

Sustainable Built Environment for People and Society

Edited by Masa Noguchi

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