Why Build Green?
Green Building Benefits
Environmental Benefits
- Enhance and protect ecosystems and biodiversity
- Improve air and water quality
- Reduce solid waste
- Conserve natural resources
Economic Benefits
- Reduce operating costs
- Enhance asset value and profits
- Improve employee productivity and satisfaction
- Optimize life-cycle economic performance
Health and Community Benefits
- Improve air, thermal and acoustic environments
- Enhance occupant comfort and health
- Minimize strain on local infrastructure
- Contribute to overall quality of life
Did You Know?
The built environment has a profound impact on our environment, economy, health, and productivity.
In the United States alone, buildings account for:
- 70% of electricity consumption
- 39% of energy use
- 39% of all carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions
- 40% of raw materials use
- 30% of waste output (136 million tons annually)
- 12% of potable water consumption