What is Green Building? Green
building, or sustainable design, is the practice of
increasing the efficiency with which buildings and
their sites use energy, water, and materials, and
reducing building impacts on human health and the
environment over the entire life cycle of the
building. Green building concepts extend beyond the
walls of buildings and can include site planning,
community and land use planning issues as well.
Why is Green Building important?
The growth and development of our communities has a
large impact on our natural environment. The
manufacturing, design, construction, and operation
of the buildings in which we live and work are
responsible for the consumption of many of our
natural resources.
In the United States, buildings account
for:
- 39% of total energy use
- 68% of total electricity consumption
- 30% of landfill waste
- 38% of carbon dioxide emissions
- 12% of total water consumption
Environmental Benefits
- Enhance and protect biodiversity and ecosystems
- Improve air and water quality
- Reduce waste streams
- Conserve and restore natural resources
Economic Benefits
- Reduce operating costs
- Improve occupant productivity
- Enhance asset value and profits
- Optimize life-cycle economic performance
Social Benefits
- Enhance occupant health and comfort
- Improve indoor air quality
- Minimize strain on local utility infrastructure
- Improve overall quality of life
Green Building Programs
- LEED, Leadership in Energy & Environmental
Design, is the nationally accepted rating system
for commercial and institutional green buildings.
The program helps establish a standard measurement
for green building. Contact the US Green Building
Council for more information
www.usgbc.org/leed/http://www.usgbc.org/leed/
- NC HealthyBuilt Homes Program is a state-wide
residential green building rating program
administered by the NC Solar Center. Homes receive
a rating and certificate based on third party
inspections. Contact the WNC Green Building Council
for more information http://www.wncgbc.org/healthybuilt/
