What is a 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