According to the Environmental Protection Agency, buildings in the United States account for 39 percent of total energy use, 12 percent of total water consumption, 68 percent of total electricity consumption, and 38 percent of carbon dioxide emissions! By building green, we can reduce the impact on the natural environment, economy and even human health.  Green construction methods can be integrated into buildings at any stage, from design and construction, to renovation and deconstruction.

Environmental benefits: 

1.  Enhance and protect biodiversity and ecosystems

2.  Improve air and water quality

3.  Reduce waste streams

4.  Conserve and restore natural resources

Economic benefits

1.  Reduce operating costs

2.  Create, expand, and shape markets for green product and services

3.  Improve occupant productivity

4.  Optimize life-cycle economic performance

Social benefits

1.  Enhance occupant comfort and health

2.  Heighten aesthetic qualities

3.  Minimize strain on local infrastructure

4.  Improve overall quality of life

Add green building expertise to all your business offerings and give homeowners the assurance that their homes are healthier, and more energy and resource efficient.  As an added incentive, building green improves property values at the time of sale.  The following are examples of incorporating green in your building project:

1.  Energy efficiency:  Lighting, insulation, heating and cooling

2.  Resource conservation:  Using recycled materials and building durable

3.  Indoor air quality:  Using healthier materials and building for optimal ventilation

4.  Water conservation:  Using high efficiency toilets, dishwashers and washing machines and building drought resistant landscapes

5.  Community:  Working with neighborhood associations to assure low crime and walkable neighborhoods, bicycle friendly paths and parks

Construction companies should make their clients aware of the many benefits of building green.  You can provide added value to all your client transactions by guiding them toward healthier, economically sound decisions.