The benefits of designing with the whole world in mind
As the green building movement grows in popularity and recognition,
you may be wondering what it’s all about or, at the very least, whether
or not it’s worth the trouble to green up your own home building and
remodeling plans. Green building typically requires more thought,
research and design time, but that up-front investment can lead to
later savings in materials costs and a boost in quality of living.
To
get an idea of the impact of construction on our environment, consider
a few of the findings of the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC). In
our country alone, residential and commercial buildings account for 36%
of total energy use and 65% of electricity consumption. They claim 30%
of raw materials and 12% of potable water. And when it comes to
pollution, our built environment generates 30% of greenhouse gas
emissions and 136 million annual tons of waste. Looking at this state
of affairs through green-tinted glasses, it’s not hard to see how a
little conservation could go a long way.
Here are more specific reasons to consider building green:
Environmental benefits: Green practices conserve natural resources, reduce generation of
natural waste, improve air and water quality, and enhance and protect
biodiversity and ecosystems.
Economic benefits: Property value is enhanced, green
materials often cost less than traditional ones, energy usage is
reduced, sustainability in building means a longer life for and reduced
maintenance of the structure, and, particularly in the case of
commercial properties, occupant productivity and satisfaction can be
improved.
Health and community benefits: Air, thermal and acoustic
environments are improved, occupant comfort and health are enhanced
thanks to reduced VOCs (volatile organic compounds, emitted by
materials used during and after the building process), aesthetic
qualities are heightened, and strain on local infrastructure is
minimized. In short, quality of life is improved for everyone involved.
This
holistic approach to creating a living space can take many forms, so
don’t think you’re out of the loop just because you’re not planning on
building a straw-bale house anytime soon (although that is a pretty
cool and innovative green building technique). Start by shopping for
appliances and home systems that have earned the EnergyStar label, and
conserve water with the new WaterSense products being introduced this year. Take a closer look at green
building materials offered at your favorite home improvement center,
and research all the choices next time you’re planning a project, big
or small. Finally, thanks to organizations like the USGBC and such
guidelines as the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED)
Green Building Rating System™, you can be assured that plenty of
trained building professionals are ready to show you how very easy it
is to be green.
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