Green building is a "Whole-Systems" approach for designing and constructing buildings that conserve energy, water, and material resources and are healthier, safer, and more comfortable.
Green Building in Practice
In practical terms, green building includes:
- Using sun and wind to the building's advantage for natural heating, cooling, and day lighting
- Landscaping with native plants and using water efficiently
- Building quality, durable structures
- Insulating well and ventilating appropriately
- Incorporating salvaged, recycled, and sustainably harvested materials
- Maintaining healthy indoor air quality with appropriate building techniques and materials
- Using energy-efficient and water-saving appliances and fixtures
- Reducing and recycling construction waste