James Gallo Eco Energy: Green Building Is The Superior Choice : Eco Articles

Well I am non stop on the
search for fun ideas on
Alternative Energy Sources. This morning, I
discovered a very
excellent piece of content that talks over Eco Energy Sources from a new
point of view. Today’s fun post is titled Green Building Is The Superior Choice .

Article by Art Gib

With global climate change and energy woes topping the news almost daily, people have become increasingly aware of the problems, inspiring new and innovative ways of sustainable living. Choosing more energy efficient cars and appliances, recycling, and purchasing organically produced foods and fibers are beginning steps. Green building design is also growing more in demand for residential and commercial new construction and renovation. It isn’t just an environmentally responsible choice, it’s a wise financial decision.

Green buildings are energy savers. According to the U.S. Green Building Council, buildings consume 39% of the total energy used in the U.S., including 72% of the electricity produced. A green building is architecturally designed to take advantage of renewable resources such as passive and active solar energy; increased insulation and high-performance windows; and energy efficient systems, including HVAC and Energy Star appliances. A green building will save from 30% to 50% in energy costs.

Green building reduces water usage by 30% to 50% with the use of low flow showers, faucets, and toilets. Energy Star dish and clothes washers, along with native landscaping further conserves water and the energy it requires to purify and pump it into homes and buildings.

Green homes are healthier for residents, workers, and the environment. Indoor air pollution levels can be three to five times higher than levels outdoors, associated with respiratory illnesses, cancer, and other disorders. Green buildings utilizing low-emitting materials to reduce levels of such toxins as VOCs and formaldehyde. They also improve air quality with improved air filtration and ventilation, moisture management to reduce molds, and air sealing. Research has shown that in green buildings, employee absences are reduced by 41% and productivity increases by 0.7% to 26.1%. In green building schools, student performance increases by 20%.

Though the current economic market has seen homes decrease in value up to 40%, green homes have increased in value by an average of 7.5%. They are significantly more attractive to buyers for the savings enjoyed monthly in electric, gas, and water bills as well as the health benefits of improved indoor air quality. Green buildings are designed for increased daylight, thermal and acoustical control, creating a more aesthetically pleasing and more comfortable space, further increasing their appeal.

Green buildings reduce environmental levels of CO2 emissions by reducing energy requirements as well as protect waterways from pollution with low-impact development. They reduce waste by utilizing sustainable materials and resources. Though green building requires additional costs up-front, many see a return on investment in as little as three years with the savings in energy and water usage. All of these reasons and more make green building the superior choice.

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