Eco Faqs & Links

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Frequently Asked Questions...

Global warming has resulted from an increase in carbon dioxide in the atmosphere due to the burning of fossil fuels, coal, and oil. This is also known as the Greenhouse Effect.

How does global warming relate to sustainable building?

What do you say to people who say it's too expensive to build green?

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According to U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) buildings:

account for nearly 50% of global warming,
are responsible for emission of 30% of the greenhouse gases,
contribute 65% of landfill waste, and
use 70% of the nation's electricity.

The average energy savings from green building is 30%, and
the resource savings from using recycled content and not using

landfills (recycling or re-purposing) is between 50-90%, depending on the project's goals.

Some of the elements of environmentally responsible building do cost more, at least initially. However, many of the design and building practices advocated by eco designers cost no more than conventional practice. Zero cost premium is most common when sustainability is integrated early in the design process, rather than as a afterthought.

When designing/building green, please consider First-Costs vs Life Cycle costs. For example, when purchasing an energy efficient appliance, the first cost may be slightly higher. However, throughout the life cycle of that appliance, the amount of energy and money saved will far exceed the premium paid for the appliance at first cost.

How much more (if any) does it cost to incorporate green features into a building or renovation project at the onset? Recent research has concluded that green building costs 0-2% more than traditionally designed buildings at First-cost. Turner Construction's green guru Rod Wille, the company's senior vice president of sustainable construction, says basic green design doesn't have to cost more. "Good-quality building with basic LEED certification as a goal shouldn't cost any more money."

Keep in mind that buildings that earn the Energy Star Label, showed a 40% reduced operating costs compared to buildings with average energy performance. Annually, this equates to a $34 billion dollar savings for owners/operators.
In addition to energy savings, life-cycle costs are seen as a result of: