THINGS TO CONSIDER

 

Green buildings achieve the best results when they are developed through an integrated design and construction process that ideally begins in the pre-design phase when project goals are set. In this approach, all members of the building team are engaged in the green building elements of the project and work to maximize efficiency throughout different development phases. This integrated process can make a significant difference in the environmental and economic success of a green building project.

Green buildings use a variety of features to reduce their impacts on the environment. These features can broadly be categorized as follows:

Energy Efficiency: Building structures, mechanical and electric systems, heating, and lighting that use minimal energy while providing the same comfort levels as conventional energy systems.

Water Efficiency: Water fixtures, reuse techniques, and other measures that reduce water use while providing the service expected by occupants.

Site Use: Minimization of land used for a building, location near public transportation, erosion prevention, and other techniques that reduce impacts on surrounding land.

Material Use: Recycled, easily regenerated, or efficiently produced materials and building techniques that minimize the materials required for a building.

Indoor Environmental Quality: Use of non-toxic materials, good ventilation, daylighting, and other improvements to the indoor environment that increase occupants' comfort and productivity.


Commercial and residential buildings use one-third of the energy consumed in the United States, and two-thirds of all electricity. Buildings produce roughly a third of carbon dioxide emissions and other emissions that harm air quality. Additionally, buildings generate waste during construction and operation; can have poor indoor air quality, affecting worker health; and often don't consider the impact made on the community through increased transportation, sprawl, and cultural and historical impact. Green buildings address a wide range of topics, including:

  • Water conservation
  • Waste management
  • Renewable energy sources
  • Non-toxic materials
  • Recycled/reused materials
  • Energy efficiency
  • Reduced environmental impact on the building site
  • Wise use of space/reduced building size
  • Balance of environmental and economic considerations
  • Consideration for cultural and historical factors of the site
  • Proximity to transportation sources

Ideas:

  • Choose a building site with access to natural light and shade.
  • Implement daylighting, sloped ceilings, inner windows/atriums, and other passive solar techniques.
  • Install motion-sensitive lights that automatically shut off and task lighting at each desk so individuals can control their own light.
  • Use native plants for landscaping.
  • Investigate the local watershed and where runoff/pollution from construction will flow.
  • Use recycled-content products.
  • Install energy-efficient appliances.
  • Reduce dependence on air conditioning and heating systems by using natural light and shade as well as building features to store heat and cold.
  • Install recycling facilities in the building.
  • Reuse building components, fixtures, and furniture.
  • Utilize water conservation practices, such as use of rainwater for irrigation.
  • Avoid building materials with volatile organic compounds.
  • Ensure an adequate fresh air supply.
  • Supply adequate acoustic control, such as white noise generators.
  • Consider how employees will travel to the site, availability of bike and bus routes.
  • Pay attention to the culture and history of the community as well as past uses of the building.
  • Research regulations that facilitate green design and financial incentives.

Benefits:

  • Financial savings resulting from energy-efficient and water-saving practices and wiser use of resources. Material costs can be lower if reusing materials. Waste disposal costs also may be lower, both during construction and operation.
  • Tax incentives offered by some cities, counties, and states for energy efficiency and green building.
  • Reduced environmental impact from using fewer resources and producing less waste.
  • Improved worker productivity and health from more efficient lighting, improved air, less-toxic chemicals, and improved employee satisfactiona nd well-being.
  • Higher building value from lower operating costs, reduced turnover, and increased property value.
  • Increased sales and customers if the facility is a more pleasant place to shop or if customers choose to do business with an environmentally conscious company.