Green Building: What is it?
The Green Building industry is growing by as much as 75 percent a year. So what is green building and why is it the way to go today in building design and construction?
Traditional buildings and construction practices typically neglect environmental consideration and can generate twice the amount of carbon dioxide than the average car per year.
Green Buildings use resources more efficiently allowing for savings in operation and economical construction. Sustainable choices can add up to big savings. In some cases, energy efficient designs and technologies can reduce energy costs by as much as 50 percent. The benefits of green building include: increased energy efficiency; increased water efficiency; conservation of natural resources; use of non-toxic materials; a healthier indoor environment; and improved economic performance.
The US Green Building Council’s Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design or LEED, Green Rating System provides a standard that is recognized for building efficiency among professionals. Houston has 20 buildings and Texas has more than 80 buildings that have been registered for LEED.
This movement for better, environmentally friendly buildings is good news.