What is Green Building?
Green building is a whole-systems approach for designing and constructing buildings that conserve energy, water, and material resources. Green buildings are healthier, safer, and more comfortable.

In practical terms, green building includes:

• Using sun and wind to the building's advantage for natural heating, cooling, and daylighting
• Landscaping with native plants and using water efficiently
• Building quality, durable structures
• Insulating well and ventilating appropriately
• Incorporating salvaged, recycled, and sustainably-harvested materials
• Maintaining healthy indoor air quality with appropriate building techniques and materials
• Using energy efficient and water-saving appliances and fixtures
• Reducing and recycling construction waste

Resources

• Energy Conservation and Green Building Agencies and Resources
• Build It Green offers:
  • Continuing education and networking for public agencies, non-profits, and building professionals
  • Listing of certified green architects and building contractors
  • Materials database - An extensive listing of green products, materials, and technologies available in the Bay Area
  • Fact sheets, referrals, case studies, event listings, green building links, and in-depth information on green building materials and strategies
  • Green home tours, workshops, and presentations