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The built
environment has a profound impact on our natural
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), and
-
12% of
potable water consumption.
Benefits of
Green Building
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
Source:
US Green Building
Council
Green Building Articles from
Proyecto Magazine
Building Green: Slowly Catching on in South
Florida
Remodeling Green
2007 is the Year of LEED, part 1
2007 is the Year of LEED, part 2
2007 is the Year of LEED, conclusion |