Green Building Overview

Green building is the practice of creating, retrofitting and rehabbing structures using processes that are environmentally responsible and resource-efficient throughout a building's life from site selection to design, construction, operation, maintenance, renovation and deconstruction. This practice enhances and complements the classical building design concerns of economy, utility, durability, and comfort. Green construction methods can be integrated into buildings at any stage; however, the most significant benefits can be obtained if the design and construction team takes an integrated approach from the earliest stages of a building project.

Throughout the planning process, green buildings are designed to reduce the overall impact of the built environment on human health and the natural environment by:

• Efficiently using energy, water, and other resources
• Protecting occupant health and improving employee productivity and family comfort
• Reducing waste, pollution and environmental degradation
• Minimizing maintenance issues amd costs

For example, green buildings may:

• Incorporate sustainable materials in their construction (e.g., reused, recycled-content, or made from renewable resources)
• Create healthy indoor environments with minimal pollutants (e.g., reduced product emissions & good ventilation)
• Include water reduction strategies inside & out (e.g., low flow fixtures, native plants in landscaping, rain barrels).

Adapted from http://www.epa.gov/greenbuilding/