By Wayne T. Hudson, LEED AP
According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), commercial buildings are some of the biggest energy consumers — as well as sources of wasted energy — in the country. In fact, buildings account for:
- 36 percent of total energy use and 65 percent of electricity consumption;
- 30 percent of waste output (136 million tons annually); and
- 12 percent of potable water consumption.
There are a number of ways that building owners and facilities managers can improve the statistics for their properties. In fact, creating a “green” building is an easy and potentially profitable way to make a positive impact on the environment.
Utilizing green building practices can be beneficial in a number of ways:
- Enhance and protect biodiversity and ecosystems
- Improve air and water quality and reduce waste streams
- Conserve and restore natural resources
- Reduce operating costs
- Improve occupant productivity, comfort and health
- Minimize strain on local infrastructure
- Improve overall quality of life
For additional information about creating a green building, contact us.