Green Building

The built environment has a profound impact on our natural environment, economy, health, and productivity. In the United States alone, buildings on average account for:

• 72% of electricity consumption
• 39% of energy use
• 38% of all carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions
• 40% of raw materials use
• 30% of waste output (136 million tons annually)
• 14% of potable water consumption

Green building also known as a sustainable or high performance building is the practice of creating structures and using processes that are environmentally responsible and resource-efficient throughout a building’s life-cycle from siting to design, construction, operation, maintenance, renovation and deconstruction. This practice expands and complements the classical building design concerns of economy, utility, durability, and comfort.

It’s a practical response to a variety of issues that affect all of us – like increasing energy prices, waning water resources, and changing weather patterns. It means making intentional decisions about:

• Energy efficiency improvements such as high levels of insulation, efficient HVAC systems, high-performance windows and energy-efficient appliances and lighting
• Water conservation measures such as water-efficient appliances and fixtures, filtration systems, and drought resistant or low-maintenance landscaping
• Resource conservation using materials and techniques such as engineered wood and wood alternatives, recycled building materials, sustainably harvested lumber, and more durable products
• Indoor environmental quality considerations such as effective HVAC equipment, formaldehyde-free finishes, low-allergen materials, and products with minimum off-gassing or low volatile organic compounds (VOCs)
• Site design planning such as minimizing disruption and preserving open space

Benefits of Green Building

Environmental benefits of green building:

• Enhance and protect ecosystems and biodiversity
• Improve air and water quality
• Reduce solid waste
• Conserve natural resources

Economic benefits of green building:

• Reduce operating cost
• Enhance asset value and profits
• Improve employee productivity and satisfaction
• Optimize life-cycle economic performance

Health and community benefits of green building:

• Improve air, thermal, and acoustic environment
• Enhance occupant comfort and health
• Minimize strain on local infrastructure
• Contribute to overall quality of life

Excerpts from the Northeast Ohio Chapter of the US Green Building Council and the National Associate of Home Builders