There
are many sustainability issues that are relevant today. This
page will focus on a particular topic every month.
This
month's topic: Green Building
Architecture
and the construction business are very much in the forefront
of figuring out sustainable design solutions—it's what's
called "green building". Green building can lower
the energy consumption, improve the air and lifestyle quality
and the conservation of natural resources*.
It's good for your pocket, good for the environment and good
for the economy. This contrasts the existing paradigms in
building construction and usage which utilizes
1/6th of the world's fresh water, 1/4 of all wood harvest,
and 2/5ths of all material and energy flows.* Green
building is a good opportunity to build, renovate, operate
and reuse materials in a cost-efficient, environmentally sound
scenario, without compromising value, aesthetics or function**.
While
costs seem to be a prevalent concern in choosing green building
practices, it doesn't have to. Green building will provide
clients with upfront and long-term costs, and the savings
will add up thorough the years. Here is a good list for environmentally
responsible design and construction.***
Resources:
Build
It Green
Green
Building in Alameda County
California
Integrated Waste Management Board
Environmental
Protection Agency
GreenerBuildings
U.S.
Green Building Council
©
2006 Designarchy
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