According to the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), buildings really do have a tremendous impact on the environment, most people just don't stop and think about it. Implementing green building practices is one way to help minimize the impact buildings have on the natural environment. The environmental benefits of going green include improved air and water quality, protecting and preserving natural resources, and reducing waste.
Green building initiatives also offer economic benefits, such as lower operating costs thanks to better energy and water efficiency. In fact, The American Institute of Architects (AIA) reports that, on average, green buildings "use 30% less energy than conventional buildings" ("AIA Issue Brief: The Economics of Green," August 2006, www.aia.org). Lower operating costs can also enhance the overall value of the building. 30% is a huge number when you are talking about overall annual savings.
According to the EPA, they report that most Americans spend at least 90% of their time indoors - at work, school or home. Better indoor environments (with improved air quality, for example)do provide health benefits to occupants, which may in turn improve productivity. Minimizing the strain on local infrastructures, green buildings can also benefit the community ("Why Build Green?" U.S. Green Building Council, www.usgbc.org).
