Green buildings, or sustainable properties, are going to be the future of real estate and the building construction industry. But what are green buildings?
What are green buildings?
Generally when we say green buildings or sustainable construction, we refer to a structure which is environmentally responsible. The building uses sustainable construction methods and resources efficiently. In the lifecycle of a building, it goes through several processes. A green building will use green methods from the design and construction stages, to its renovation, maintenance, operation and demolition stages. To make sure that all stages of the building used green practices and methods, the designers, builders, the maintenance team and the owners must stay in harmony. The engineers and clients must cooperate with each other at all stages of the project. A green building complements and expands the major building design concerns of a classical building and addresses utilities, durability, comfort and economy issues.
According to the U.S. Green Building Council, “Generally, green homes are healthier, more comfortable, more durable, and more energy efficient and have a much smaller environmental footprint than conventional homes.”–(What is Green Building: Increasing Building Efficiency and Reducing Building Impact | Green Resource Council )
Why green buildings are becoming popular
The concept of green buildings and a shift towards green building construction is already gaining popularity in the United States. More and more consumers are now showing concerns about the environment, resources, and sustainability aspects of a building and so the demand for green property is also increasing. Two-thirds of consumers are willing to invest in green homes.
Most consumers today recognize the relationship between sustainable buildings and savings in cost, resources and utilities, which will also translate to conservation of the environment and energy, leading to healthier living.
“Consumer interest in green building exploded in 2007, and it’s still growing. Thanks to extensive media coverage, an increasing number of consumers are becoming familiar with sustainability and green building. “- LEED Construction Articles
There are long term benefits associated with green buildings, and consumers today understands the importance of buildings made with green technology. NAR who ranked energy efficiency as “very important” purchased homes that had a median price $12,400 higher than those who ranked it “somewhat” or “not important.” (NAR – What is Green Building)
Basically there are 3 reasons why a green building is becoming so popular and is becoming the future of building construction in the United States. It can all be explained be the very basics of economics and supply and demand.
1. Green buildings for the environmental benefits
Using green practices for building your home will reduce environmental impact. You will maximize the use of raw materials, reduce energy consumption, and also reduce your carbon footprint. Green homes will reduce waste, improve air and water quality, and keep ecosystems and biodiversity protected.
2. Green buildings help the economy
Green buildings save energy and resources, and so you can stretch your hard earned dollar further. You will see savings on your energy and utility bills, which can add up to a significant amount of savings in bills over a long period of time. Green buildings are sustainable and environmentally friendly, saving you on health care costs. It also improves the value of your property, making it easier to sell.
3. Health benefits of green buildings
Green buildings are environmentally friendly and cause less emissions and pollution. You can live a longer healthier life when your house is heated and cooled naturally with the energy from the sun, with fresh air circulating through it and energy coming from natural, reusable resources. Sustainable design and architecture improve the air and water quality, and thus improving the quality of life.
“According to a recent study by the Center of the Built Environment, University of California, green office buildings improve productivity and employee satisfaction in the workplace. “ – (NAR – Why Go Green)
We have limited resources and unlimited wants and needs. If you want future generations to enjoy the same quality of life and enjoy the clean air and atmosphere that we’ve been enjoying, you need to think green and take action.
Want to know the latest in green building? We’ll find out more when Glenn Meyers of Green Building Elements joins our FREE WEBINAR this Wednesday. Sign up now and watch the webinar event live!
Source: Nourish The Planet
