What are Green Buildings? Sep17

What are Green Buildings?...

Green buildings are becoming more and more common as people are more conscious of the environment and the effect that energy has on a budget. Green buildings are structures that are both resource-efficient and environmentally responsible throughout their lifespan. From start to finish, these buildings have every green aspect that enables them to save energy usage and reduce costs. That means that the design, operation, construction, renovation, maintenance, and even demolition phases should be considered for green improvement. In order to create green buildings, the design team, engineers, clients, and architects need to work closely at every stage of the project to make sure that all features recommended and agreed upon are incorporated. Green buildings can have conventional appearances with heightened concerns for economy, durability, comfort, and even utility. New technologies are being developed and tested on an annual basis, but most green buildings make it their goal to reduce the overall impact they have on the environment and public health. The idea is to use energy, water, and other natural resources in an efficient and cost-effective manner. The building will also need to be able to reduce health hazards to occupants and perhaps even enhance overall productivity. Waste generation and degradation should also be kept to a minimum for green building standards. Natural buildings are very similar to green buildings, but only on a smaller scale. Natural buildings use natural materials that are available on a local level. Green buildings have sustainable designs coupled with green architecture and many other aspects. The sustainability of the building means that it has to meet the needs of not just this generation, but also many to come without compromising on the level of productivity of building. As of 2009, there were only 12 buildings that cost...