What Is Green Building?

Green buildings are sited, designed, constructed, and operated to

enhance the well-being of their occupants and support a healthy

community and natural environment. In practical terms, green

building is a “whole-systems” approach to building that includes:

• Designing for livable communities

• Using sun and site to the building's advantage for natural

heating, cooling, and day lighting

• Landscaping with native, drought-resistant plants and

water-efficient practices

• Building quality, durable structures

• Reducing and recycling construction and demolition waste

• Insulating well and ventilating appropriately

• Incorporating durable, salvaged, recycled, and sustainably

harvested materials

• Using healthy products and building practices

• Using energy-efficient and water-saving appliances, fixtures

and technologies

When implemented holistically, these strategies serve to preserve

our environment for future generations by conserving natural

resources and protecting air and water quality. They provide benefits

for us today by increasing comfort and well-being and helping to

maintain healthy air quality. Finally, green building strategies are good

for everyone's pocketbook by reducing maintenance and replacement

requirements, reducing utility bills and lowering the cost of home

ownership, and increasing property and resale values.