|
Written by <a href="http://allgreencontractors.com/index.php?option=com_comprofiler&task=userProfile&user=122&Itemid=60">Green Planet Building</a>
|
|
Wednesday, 22 September 2010 11:43 |
|
In the United States, buildings account for: 39 percent of total energy use 12 percent of the total water consumption 68 percent of total electricity consumption 38 percent of the carbon dioxide emissions The built environment has a vast impact on the natural environment, human health, and the economy. By adopting green building strategies, we can maximize both economic and environmental performance. Green construction methods can be integrated into buildings at any stage, from design and construction, to renovation and deconstruction. 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. Potential benefits of green building can include: 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 Create, expand, and shape markets for green product and services Improve occupant productivity Optimize life-cycle economic performance Social benefits Enhance occupant comfort and health Heighten aesthetic qualities Minimize strain on local infrastructure Improve overall quality of life Information gathered 9-20-2010 from http://www.epa.gov/greenbuilding/pubs/whybuild.htm
|
|
Last Updated on Friday, 24 September 2010 10:04 |
