What is Green Building Importance Obstacles Planning and Support

What is Green Building Importance Obstacles Planning and Support

OUT LINE
What is Green Building?
Why is Green Building Important?
Three aspects of new project planning
Obstacles
Support for Green Building?


What is Green Building?
EPA definition: “Green or sustainable building is the practice of creating healthier and more resource-efficient models of construction, renovation, operation, maintenance, and demolition.” More than just installing solar panels on your roof


new project planning
Construction – Reduce the amount of waste generated at a construction site
Design – Building design details will help to reduce construction materials, and energy/water requirements when completed
Material Selection – Careful selection of construction materials will leave less of an environmental impact


Construction
Construction waste accounts for 10 to as much as 30% of municipal waste stream
Goal: Reduce / Reuse / Recycle
Building design based on standard sizes of materials
Buy higher quality to reduce rejects
Recycle (use scraps)
Train crew
Renovate an existing building


Building Design
Goal:
To design the building so that it requires less energy/water and is healthier for inhabitants when it is complete and in use
Air ducts for an efficient and healthy air flow
Insulation
Windows designed for maximum daylight
Passive Solar Control
Solar Cells
Heat Exchanger for climate control system Location


Materials
Goal:
Choose materials that have low environmental costs and do not contribute to indoor air pollution
Engineered Lumber (recycled and reclaimed material)
Doors and Windows (energy and placement)
Floor Coverings (recycled with no off-gassing)
Roof Materials (Reflective and light)
Energy Efficient Appliances


Obstacles
93% of consumers worry about their home’s environmental performance. However, only 18% are willing to pay more to reduce the impact.
There are higher initial costs for Green Building
Customers are concerned they would be sacrificing comfort