What is a Green Building?

Now days you hear to everyone talking about going green. Whether you want to admit it or not, at some point everyone will have to follow with the green movement. This is because at the rate we are going, the earth is simply not sustainable. That means that over the years, we will begin to run out of certain natural resources that are needed in order for us to survive. That is alarming to some people, which is why there are so many people that focus on green building. But, what exactly is a green building? Let's take a closer look at what it is, why you should consider it. You are sure to find that it is something that you should take part in.

Defining a Green Building

Some people may think of a green or sustainable building as just a building that doesn’t really have as bad of an impact on the environment as another ‘average’ building. Other people may find it to be the type of building and the actual surroundings of the building.

The ideal green building would be a building project that would allow you to preserve most of the natural environment around the project site, while still being able to produce a building that is going to serve a purpose. The construction and operation will promote a healthy environment for all involve and it will not disrupt the land, water, resources and energy in and around the building. 

The U.S. EPA says “Green building is the practice of creating structures and using processes that are environmentally responsible and resource-efficient throughout a building’s life-cycle from siting to design, construction, operation, maintenance, renovation, and deconstruction. This practice expands and complements the classical building design concerns of economy, utility, durability and comfort. Green building is also known as a sustainable or high-performance building.”

Why Go Green?

Now, let us take a look at why it is so important to go green. Most people will find when going green that they are able to reduce their carbon footprint and actually lend a helping hand to the environment. You can go green in a variety of different ways, but builders and construction workers must do their part as well. If you haven’t begun going green, then you will find that there are a variety of different things that you can do to help you get started. You don’t have to jump in head first, and you can actually take some baby steps along the way. Green buildings are designed in such a way to reduce the overall impact on the environment and human health by:

i. Reducing trash, pollution, and degradation of the environment.

ii. Efficiently using energy, water, and other resources.

iii. Protecting occupant health and improving productivity.

Benefits of Green Building

Environmental Benefits:

·        Reduce wastage of water

·        Conserve natural resources

·        Improve air and water quality

·        Protect biodiversity and ecosystems

Economic Benefits:

·        Reduce operating costs

·        Improve occupant productivity

·        Create a market for green product and services

Social Benefits:

·        Improve quality of life

·        Minimize strain on local infrastructure

·        Improve occupant health and comfort