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What is Green Building?

Green building has been defined as the practice of increasing the efficiency with which buildings and their sites use water, energy, land and materials. Green buildings also reduce impacts on human health and the environment.1 Both commercial and residential projects can use green building techniques to create higher performance buildings.

While the efficiency of most buildings can be improved with the addition of green features, green buildings must meet specific criteria. In order to determine the efficiency and impact of a building or home, independent examiners use a system such as LEED, ENERGY STAR or the NAHB/ANSI National Green Building Standard.

Regardless of the level of green, these buildings are setting the standard for buildings of the future.

High Performance Homes and Buildings

The rising cost of energy and building materials, the depletion of natural resources—including water and green space—and the health risks posed by indoor air pollution are just some of the many reasons to consider building green or adding green features to your existing home or building.

Buildings and homes consume over 70% of the electricity in the U.S., much of which is wasted. Green innovations that save energy often pay for themselves within just a few years and if made when the building or home is built or refinanced, can be paid for from the energy savings.

Natural resources are preserved in green buildings by the reduction of construction waste and by the use of such innovations as rainwater harvesting and water conserving appliances. Careful siting and changes in the way green building construction sites are managed help protect the natural features in the area, enhancing both the setting and the value of the buildings.

Green buildings improve inside air quality through the careful selection of non-toxic building materials and improved ventilation systems. Natural light, which has been associated with improved job performance and satisfaction, is also an important emphasis in any comprehensive green building project.