Jarret TT Camp

Archive for October 19th, 2009

Green building is a technique that employs smart design, advanced technology, sustainable construction, and maintenance elements that create a building that has a minimal impact on the environment and creates a healthy environment for residents in the building. This type of building can be used for houses, office buildings, schools, and community centers. Green building occurs in all climates, from the hot and arid climate of Arizona to the bitter cold winters of Maine. It is estimated that 10% of new home construction in 2010 will be green.

A building does not necessarily have to be built green, as many buildings can be made green or greener well after they were originally built. The greening of a building can be done gradually and can be as easy as installing EnergyStar rated appliances, employing methods to reduce water consumption and heat loss, or creating natural landscape features on the property.

The majority of green built buildings built in the United States comply with and are certified under the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) standards. LEED is a rating system for building green and places emphasis on sustainable site development, water savings, energy efficiency, materials selection, and indoor environmental quality.

Many green buildings employ passive solar heating and lighting, motion sensor based lighting, low flow water appliances, high levels of insulation, recycled building materials, and gray water reuse. Green buildings are not only great for the environment, but it has been found that green schools offer economic and health benefits to the school system and students that they serve.

There are many benefits that can be realized by producing and living in a green environment. These buildings create a healthy environment for those who are in them, they are cost-efficient, and they are also environmentally friendly.

Green buildings are healthier since toxin-free building materials help to reduce indoor air pollution. Some green buildings also use natural ventilation systems to ensure that those inside have constant access to fresh air. It has been found that people who work in green buildings are more productive and take less sick days when compared to others who work in traditional buildings.

This style of building can sometimes be a little more expensive when looking at upfront building or remodeling costs, but they save the owner money in the long run. As these types of building projects become more commonplace, the upfront costs associated with them should continue to decrease. Since this style of building is produce with conservation in mind, monthly energy, heating/cooling, and water bills are lower than in standard buildings. There are also many tax breaks that are offered to owners of these buildings on the local, state, and federal level.

Green buildings are very environmentally friendly. Most green homes use an average of 40% less energy than comparable standard built homes. This decrease in energy consumption reduces the use of coal and oil and can help to lessen global climate change. Many green buildings are produce with recycled or renewable materials such as bamboo, hemp, and wood certified by the Forest Stewardship Council.

If you are interested in learning more about green building, check out the website of the U.S. Green Building Council or contact an Emerging Green Builders group in your area.

Learn more about this author, Joan Huston.