The sun and characteristics of the earth for heating and cooling are two things that which type of buildings are dependent on?

The correct focus is on passive design buildings, which are specifically designed to make the most of the sun's natural energy for heating and cooling. This approach relies on the architectural layout, orientation, material selection, and built environment to utilize solar gains and mitigate heat loss. Characteristics such as window placement for solar access, thermal mass for heat retention, and ventilation strategies for cooling are integral to passive design.

This type of building aims to create comfortable indoor environments while minimizing energy use, thus demonstrating a clear reliance on the sun and earth’s characteristics. By maximizing daylight and employing natural cooling techniques, passive design buildings can maintain thermal comfort without needing significant mechanical heating or cooling systems, making them highly energy efficient as well.

In contrast, energy efficient buildings may utilize a variety of technologies and practices to reduce energy consumption but do not inherently focus on passive strategies related to climate and site conditions. High-rise buildings present their own unique challenges and may not benefit from the same passive strategies due to their size and orientation. Climate-rejecting buildings imply a design philosophy that aims to minimize the impacts of climate, rather than smartly utilizing those climatic factors for optimal performance.