Photo by Brian Baiamonte

WHAT IS GREEN BUILDING? Green—or sustainable—building is the practice of creating healthier and more resource-efficient models of construction, renovation, operation, maintenance and demolition. Research and experience increasingly demonstrate that when buildings are designed and operated with their lifecycle impacts in mind, they can provide great environmental, economic and social benefits. Elements of green building include energy efficiency and renewable energy, water stewardship, environmentally preferable building materials and specifications, waste reduction, indoor environment, smart growth and sustainable development. SOURCE: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency