Boulder Colorado Commercial Real Estate Retail Goes Green

A recent study done by BIGresearch and the Southeastern Institute of Research (SIR) found that customers are much more interested in the environment than most retailers realize. A 2008 online survey of 5,300 adults measured their interest in environmental conservation and the results were incredibly revealing. About 70 percent of respondents either agreed or agreed very much with the statement, "I am concerned about the environment." That's more than indicated that they value their faith and spirituality (68 percent) or are engaged in their community (31 percent). Furthermore, these respondents were not out of the ordinary in terms of exposure to green issues. Fewer than 20% had seen the movie "An Inconvenient Truth" and 16% owned SUVs. This shows that these people are probably not unique in their concern for the environment and therefore commercial real estate and retail companies should not be worried that green buildings will only please "on the fringe" customers. In response to the question: "To what degree are the following responsible for protecting the environment?" 38.9% of those surveyed said companies are very responsible. The data suggests that being green in stores is increasingly more important to patrons. 63% said that it was either important or very important that the retailers they patronize care about the environment.

It is clear that consumers at least partially hold corporate America responsible for protecting the environment. It is crucial for the commercial real estate world to take these statistics and analyses into consideration when investing. 34% of consumers say they are more concerned about the environment than they were a year ago. This is an issue that is getting more recognition daily, it is therefore imperative for companies to go green now. However, experts say that companies must use caution when going green; they mustn't lose sight of the product. 50% of consumers are say high prices are the reason they don't buy green products. Retailers have to keep the price premium for green products under 20% or the efforts will be unprofitable. This caution should not be discouraging; implementing green practices in business is a crucial element to success and becoming more so every year. Boulder, Colorado commercial real estate exemplifies the green methodology and is becoming increasingly aware of the positive affects of sustainable building.

About the Author:
Michael Bittner, owner of Bittner Commercial Advisors, Inc. has earned an outstanding reputation as an investment partner to some of Boulder's most successful Commercial Real Estate companies. His professional experience of over twenty years in Boulder, Colorado Commercial Real Estate transactions affords you an easy way to invest and hold Commercial Real Estate as a productive part of your investment portfolio.

Going Green With Commercial Real Estate

Investing in a facility that adheres to green building standards and performance efficiency is a smart and responsible decision. When considering the value energy efficient and environmentally friendly buildings can bring to the commercial real estate market, it seems as if going green is the wisest of investments. The practice of "going green" has been gaining popularity within the last decade.

It is more important than ever to ensure we are doing all we can to lessen mankind's harmful impact on the environment, and the government is offering tax incentives to those who take on environmental challenges with green building practices. Our society as a whole has changed the way it sees building, living and working. That's why living and building "green" is more attractive than ever to both residential and commercial real estate investors. Green building design consultants can help a facility reach its efficiency goals. Green design can alleviate and reduce exposure to toxic materials, as well as ensure the conservation of non-renewable materials and energy.

When it comes to green facility construction, a green design consultant will make sure the building process minimizes the ecological impact of building as well as oversee the construction to guarantee the protection of local water, soil, air, plants and wildlife. When designing a green facility, it is important to take into account the lifestyles of those who will be using the building. Make sure the facility offers support of transportation alternatives, such as walking, mass transit, biking and alternative fuels. Incorporating design features that will make it easier for commuters who use non-traditional transportation is a responsible and modern necessity.

Of course, you'll want to utilize non-renewable energy and recycled, environmentally friendly materials in your building. Many wonderful decorations and practical applications can be made out of the abundance of recycled plastic and rubber. Plastic and rubber are extremely durable, but not very environmentally friendly. It is a wise choice to use the recycled plastic and rubber, however, because otherwise it would end up sitting in a landfill for thousands of years. And, by using recycled materials, it eliminates the need to create new, un-degradable plastic.

You may think that going green and increasing building performance efficiency would cost a lot of money. While this has been the case in the past, it is becoming more and more cost effective. In fact, green design and building often costs the same as traditional building methods. And with all the money that can be saved through efficiency and recycling, green building can actually cost far less than traditional methods over the long run. Corporations and businesses are far more likely to invest in a green building if they know it will increase their bottom line.

If you consider the long-term maintenance and energy costs, using green and energy efficient products and designs will significantly increase profitability. As green building continues to gain popularity, tax incentives will increase. It's easy see how green design and construction will pay for itself as times goes on.

Mr. Oliver is a marketing agent of Servidyne. The commercial and industrial building experts can help you manage your building's energy-efficiency while lowering operating costs. From consultations to energy audits and even to installation of a CMMS system that will keep tabs on your building maintenance and energy output for years to come. For more information on their Green Building Consultant please visit their website.

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Green Roofing With Bluegrass - LEEDS Certification Leads To Innovative Roof Design

Heating and cooling a building is an important design consideration for any building. Construction of a LEED Certified green building opens the doors to many interesting and growing choices. In Louisville Kentucky in the NuLu district a building was built to meet the Platinum standard for LEEDS certification. With innovative designs and Louisville air conditioning service available for seldom needed Louisville air conditioning repair, this building will be a model for other green design buildings. A big component of designing a green building and reducing the demand for air conditioning is the design of the roof. Other elements include the construction design and materials used for the windows. Constructing a building to reduce its energy demand is a challenging and exciting project. Several strategies are employed in the design and construction phase. Some of the strategies that went into the Green Building in the NuLu district of Louisville are helpful touchstones in understanding green design.

Cities tend to be heat islands, absorbing and emitting heat that raises the temperature several degrees higher then the surrounding rural areas. Finding ways to reduce the absorption and subsequent dispersion of heat energy is an essential component in designing a building that contributes to sustainable living. One of the simplest ways of reducing absorption is simply painting the exposed parts of roofs a light color. Black tar roofs in Louisville can reach 170 degrees in the summer. By painting them a reflective color the temperature is reduced, the building requires less cooling and the local aggregate temperature is reduced aiding in the cooling of the heat island.

A truly green roof consists of dirt and grass. This is an old form of roof building that uses the wisdom of ancient builders. Dirt roofs with grass offer several important features. The earthen foundation is cooling and insulating, making it effective in both winter and summer. The grass on the roof offers a cooling surface as well. One of the other benefits is in the water absorption of the roof. A common problem in cities is the vast water runoff that accompanies a rain storm. Most surfaces drop the water immediately into the storm system. A grass and dirt roof absorbs the water letting it seep out over several days, and reducing the amount of run off as the grass holds the moisture.

There are many benefits to creating and installing a green roof. There are some reports that indicate a green roof can cut heating and cooling costs by as much as 20 to 30 percent in a one story building. It can also increase the longevity of a roof by reducing the impact of UV rays on membranes and increasing the waterproofing capabilities. Green roofs can also act as a noise buffering system. Another obvious benefit is the conversion of carbon dioxide into oxygen by the plants on the roof.

There are many reasons to consider a green roof when renovating or designing a building. Some considerations are the additional weight that the earth may require. The weight should be estimated with maximum water absorption considered. Beyond the contribution to a more sustainable way of building, green roofs can be aesthetically pleasing.

Connor Sullivan recently contacted a Louisville air conditioning repair specialist to fix a problem at his office. He scheduled a Louisville air conditioning service specialist to repair his parent's air conditioner.

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Green Building - Getting The Services Of A Green Architect And Contractor

For those who are planning to build a new house or do some major home remodeling, why not do such tasks the eco-friendly way?. The concepts of green building have taken a major foothold in the home building and construction industry.

Based on US Census figures, it was estimated that more than 1.3 million new homes were built in the United States in 2002, and remodelling and home improvement spending in 1996 amounted to $119 billion. Remodeling or constructing your home gives you a chance to help transform the marketplace towards a sustainability and environment-friendly one, and create living space that's better for you and the environment.

Homes Have A Major Effect On The Environment

It's a fact that homes affect the planet, from the use and depletion of natural resource, human health, to overall ecological integrity. Aside from basic health and safety measures mentioned in the building code, there's no requirement to minimize these impacts. A new home construction or remodel would serve an opportunity in creating a symbolic and physical representation of your commitment to caring for the planet, health, and in a vital and engaged community.

Why It Pays To Find Architects Or Contractors Who Espouse Green Building Concepts

One you try looking for eco-friendly home building concepts and practices, you'll be surprised to quickly find one once you tap into the local design community, that there are a number of firms that have gained stellar reputations for going green.

Upon closer observation, you'll notice that within the general category of green, each firm or architect will have its strong points, as some focus on healthy building, while other concentrate on energy efficiency and/or renewable energy, and some apply their expertise on green materials, natural building techniques, or building modular homes. Look for a professional contractor that has extensive applied experience in building green, and will gladly apply these elements to your home project.

Choosing Green Architects And Home Contractors

Check Out Their Previous Record For Demonstrated Experience

First, do a thorough background check on an architect or contractor's experience with green building. Find out if he or she can point to specific projects in their portfolio, and provide references as well. Aside from ensuring that the architect or contractor is licensed and bonded, ask if he or she is a member of green design organizations or has participated in any programs, and if the contractor follows construction practices that minimize pollution and protects indoor air quality and enhance worker health and safety as well.

Ensure That A Contractor Practices What He Or She Professes

Aska prospective home contractor or architect how he or she operates their business; like does he recycle in the office as well as on the job site? Find out if the green design elements evident,such as environmentally responsible materials and office supplies, energy efficient lighting, fixtures.

Check If Green Concepts Are Incorporated Into the Contract Details

Architects have standard specifications that lays out the orders for everyone involved in building the house, down to how the paint is applied and what quality of materials are chosen for the cabinets. These specifications are generally customized by each company, and further modified for each project. These specs are a powerful tool in green building, while at the same time, are a legal document, and can be tedious to review sometimes. Ask an architect or contractor to give you an overview of the specifications for your project, and ensure that they cover all these.

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How Green Are You? - Keys To Sustainable Construction

There are as many definitions of “green” as there are shades of color. Wikipedia defines a green building, also known as a sustainable building as “ a structure that is designed, built, renovated, operated, or reused in an ecological and resource-efficient manner.”

Dade County Florida's Website reads that, “Sustainable building practices go beyond energy and water conservation to incorporate environmentally sensitive site planning, resource efficient building materials and superior indoor environmental quality.” The website lists five key benefits of sustainable construction that seems to concisely capture the “spirit” of the green building concept.

- Lower electric and water utility costs
- Environmentally effective use of building materials
- Enhanced health and productivity
- Long-term economic returns
- Reduced environmental impact

The need to reduce costs associated with energy production and importing building materials, the importance of conserving water and natural resources and minimizing environmental impact are challenges that are even more paramount within our island communities. Green initiatives provide excellent benefits but carry a pricetag asociated with implementation. We've looked at the benefits and the challenges, but what are the affordable solutions?

Lower Eletric and Water Utility costs
Thin-film solar and Atmospheric Water Generation are two affordable technolgies that fit expectioannly well in the Caribbean region. With the abundance of sunshine we receive intermingled with overcast days, it is still estimated that a solar radiation of 4-5 hours per day is typical for the region. Using lighweight thin-film solar, with a capacity of an estimated 5 watts/sq ft. a typical 1,200 sq ft home could easily support a roof laminted 3,000 Watt solar power system. A system of this size would generate an estimated 12-15kWh per day. By reducing electiical lighintg, cooling, and appliance loads to less than 4k the solar system can also be recued in size.

How do we reduce our electrical load calculations? Design and retrofit with L.E.D. Lighting, A typical home using high efficiency L.E.D. lighting would use just under 250 Watts for the entire lighting circuit and provide equal or higher lumen output than convenienal incandescent or CFL lighting systems. Heat pump water heating technologies provide an estimates 7,000 btu output and a max water temp of 135 while using less than 800 watts nominal. Air Conditioning units using proven ductless-split DC Inverter technologies provide remote controlled zoned cooling while using as little as 1,200 watts for a 11,000btu system. Energy efficient appliances are readily available and help to reduce overall electrical loads

A very natural solution for clean water production in the Caribbean has been around since the beginning of time. Atmospheric Water Generation (AWG) systems use the natural humidity in the air to produce up to 6gallons per day of pure filtered drinking water without the need for any plumbing or realated infrastructure. Dispensing 99.9% pure water, the AWG system can be operated directly from solar power or plugs into a standard household outlet. With a built in water heating element the units dispense hot or cold water on demand without the need for maintaining an inventory of bottled water. Production costs are estimated between $0.06 -0.14 per gallon of water.

Environmentally Effective use of Building Materials
What's needed is a building system that can resist high winds, is versatile, structural, provides a high level of insulation, minimim waste and is affordable. Concrete Structural Insulated Panels (CSIP) provide an excellent alternative to conventional concrete block construction in the Caribbean. Proven and accepted throughout the United States, CSIP's are pre-designed, pre-cut, professionally engineered, insulated, provide a strucural frame and exterior and interior concrete fire resistant surfaces for finishing. These lighweight concrete panels are produced by manufacturers that are members of the Unites States Green Building Council (USGBC) such as T.Clear Corp of Hamilton Ohio. Their ProTec® CSIP building system provides less skilled labor, reduces wall construction time to a matter days verses months and is competitively afforadble when compared to block or conventioanl construction techniques. The company literature states the panels are “framing, sheathing, insulation and interior wall surface all in one. This equates to building more homes in les time with fewer associated costs and waste.

Enhanced Health and Productivity
Clean water, fresh air, low VOC and no off-gasing products should be the benchmark for homes built under the “green” design concept. Energy conservation and eco-friendly homes do not happen by accident, it takes planning and design guidelines to ensure homes provide comfort, style and are also affordable. Choosing off the shelf products that are eco-friendly minimize costs and help descrease the time required to source specialized products that add time and expense to the construction process. Despite the misconception, “green homes” can be stylish, affordable and built on a reduced timeline.

The Protec® Building System is currently used by HDC Development Corp within the Bahamas to build as it describes, “Net Zero Energy Homes”. Recently receing apporavel from The Bahamas Ministry of Works, the Protec Building System® is meticuoslesy engineered to design loads of up to 150 mile per winds. According to the information from the company's website, these “Net Zero Energy Homes” gerernate more energy than they consume, have minimal environmental impact, resist high winds and are very compatiable to developers seeking higher construction productivity rates.

Long-term Economic Returns
Unfortunately, when green initiatives are initially introduced into some regions for the first time, typically there exists an entense amount of resistance as traditional stakeholders, with entrenched concepts and methods are challenged by the new technology. However, for the greater good of the entire Caribbean region, traditional beauracratis “red tape” needs to be pierced so that a new generation may benefit from the advances in proven technology and ensure our regions continued success in the renewable energy amd sustainable development sectors.

Openminded acceptance of proven “green technologies” will bring investment, trainig, jobs and prosperity to the Caribbean region. The region is ideal to capture the full potential of clean solar and wind power generation. Long-term economic growth is the fruit that's harvested when we plant the seeds of green initiavtes today.

Reduced environmental impact
Waste reduction, resource conservation and matinainting pure water inventories are important issues that face any region, but even more so here in the Caribbean islands. As our population grow so does the need to pay more strict attention to the subject of waste management and recycling. Education and acceptance of recycling is the key. Conservation is an adopted lifestyle and the population must see it as a benefit in order to embrace it. Tangible incentives such as reductions in Waste Collection rates for househgolds that recycle, reduced utility rates for homes with Solar or wind Power Generation systems and reduced municipal water rates for households with Atmospheric Water Generators would go a long way to helping the large public adopt and embrace “going green”.

Lets hope the islands of the Caribbean region can by careful and wise use of our startegic natural resources become the worldwide leader in the adoption and implemntation of proven green technologies. It is clear we have the most to gain and success will equate to increased toursim, investment, training, jobs and prosperity for our region.

About the Author:
Kanchoo - International Green Building Consultant, Desinger and Builder has combined 24+ years of construction, lighting, electronics and engineering experience into concise sensible solutions for designing and building Energy Efficient Panelized "Green" Homes from the foundation to the roof. Each article features practical and affordable solutions to design and build "Zet Zero Energy Homes".

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Green Architecture - Interior Remodeling In Southern Climates

All of a sudden everyone is waking up to the fact that carbon emissions and our American lifestyle in general are destroying the planet and making us, with each passing day, more energy dependent on Venezuelan or Middle Eastern oil. So when we undertake a general or partial interior remodeling, what should we keep in mind? And will "going green" help us to be healthier as well?

LEED for Homes as well as the Florida Green Building Coalition both deal with these issues through a point system for certifying green houses. What can we learn from these two systems and apply them to interior remodelings?

FOUR MOST IMPORTANT ITEMS

For my money there are four things which are going to do more to make an interior remodeling energy efficient:

1. A very high energy efficient rating (SEER) for the air-conditioning system

2. Adding windows whenever possible to provide as many rooms as possible with cross-ventilation

3. Ceiling fans

4. Overhangs over all the windows or planting shade trees outside the windows.

Then, after these 4 points, there are many which are also very important.

NO AIR-HANDLER OR DUCTS IN NON-CONDITIONED SPACE

No air-handler or ducts in non-conditioned spaces such as attics or garages. This is important both for health reasons and energy efficiency. If ducts are placed in non-conditioned spaces, the ducts, which have small leaks, will lose cool air through these small openings. The air handler, if put in this kind of space will take in hotter air and have to work harder than if it were in an air-conditioned space.

Also, using mastic compound to seal all ductwork connections provides a seal that is much less prone to failure than tape.

EFFICIENT WINDOWS

Tinted windows with a high-efficiency rating are also an important element in maintaining a comfortable temperature within interior spaces.

ECO-FRIENDLY INSULATION

Insulation in the attic is another very important element in cooling the interior environment. All remodelings should consider providing new eco-friendly insulation in the attic of any air-conditioned spaces. Four types are as follows:

• Recycled cellulose insulation

• Recycled cotton denim insulation

• Recycled mineral wool insulation

• Recycled perlite composite board

SOLAR WATER HEATING SYSTEM

A large portion of a home's energy use is dedicated to water heating. If an interior remodeling is going to include areas which use plumbing, a solar water heater should be considered. Fifty to seventy percent of an average household's hot water needs can be provided at low cost with a modestly sized solar water heating.

LOW FLOW SHOWERHEADS

Showerheads and faucets be rated at a maximum flow rate of 2.5 gallons per minute at 80 psi water pressure. There are available fixtures on the market today that exceed these standards. Laminar flow controls may also be used that deliver a precise volume of water at faucets, showerheads, and hose outlets. Unlike conventional water-saving fixtures that deliver varying flow rates in response
to varying line pressure, fixtures equipped with laminar flow controls deliver a constant rate.

NO GARBAGE DISPOSAL

If there is a kitchen remodeling in the project, avoiding the installation of a garbage disposal will make the remodeling greener. Garbage disposals are notorious water wasters.

DUAL FLUSH OR LOW FLOW TOILETS

Thirty to forty percent of indoor water use in a home is due to toilet use. Use toilets which exceed a flow rate of 1.6 gallons/flush. WaterSense-labeled products are 20% more efficient that other toilets.

ENERGY-EFFICIENT OVEN/RANGE

Tests on ovens demonstrate that only 6% of the energy output of a typical oven is actually absorbed by the food. Most of the heat goes into the metal and surrounding air space. With additional insulation and tighter door gaskets and hinges, new ovens save energy.

• Gas ovens with new electronic pilotless ignition instead of a pilot light will be 30% more efficient than one with a pilot light. A gas appliance uses much less energy than an electric one.

Because of this a gas appliance costs about half to operate.

• A self-cleaning oven has more insulation and therefore is cheaper to operate.

• For electric cooktops there are several choices: Solid disk elements and radiant elements under glass take longer to heat up and use more electricity. More efficient than conventional electric coil elements, induction elements require that you use only iron or steel pots and pans.

Aluminum cookware will not work with induction elements.

• The range hood should ventilate to the outside and not simply re-circulate. This is for health reasons and not energy reason.

CERTIFIED SUSTAINABLE LUMBER

Certified sustainable lumber is obtained from a sustainably managed forest. The two best know certifying organizations: the Forest Stewardship Council and Sustainable Forestry Initiative.

RECYCLED CONTENT DRYWALL

If there is a local source for recycled drywall, use of this product will make the remodeling greener.

ECO-FRIENDLY FLOORING

Using eco-friendly flooring for the remodeling goes a long way to a "green" status:

• Bamboo flooring.

• Cork flooring.

• Natural linoleum.

• Floor tiles made from recycled glass or other 100% recycled content material.

• Reuse of salvaged wood.

• Domestically produced hardwood materials from sustainably managed forests.

• Concrete (stamped, stained, etc.)

• Recycled content carpet/carpet pad and rugs.

• Natural content carpet/carpet pad and rugs: Carpets/rugs must be composed of 100% natural materials such as wool, jute, and hemp.

CONCRETE WITH FLY ASH

Concrete with 18% of the total cement composed of fly ash or blast furnace slag can be used where concrete is used except in structural elements.

LOCALLY PRODUCED MATERIALS

Materials that are produced in the local area use much less energy to transport than materials that are produced on the other side of the world and have to be flown, trucked, or shipped to the job.

ENERGY STAR ADVANCED LIGHTING PACKAGE

Energy Star ceiling fans, indoor lighting fixtures and bulbs can save energy in the long run. Use these whenever possible.

GREYWATER USE

Water use can be conserved by reusing domestic wastewater from any source except toilets and the kitchen sink-this includes laundry, shower/bath, faucets, and dishwasher. It can also include air conditioner condensate. Reusing greywater for landscape irrigation presents an exciting opportunity for water conservation. Most water consumption in a Southern home is for irrigation of landscaping. Although this can be done theoretically, some building departments have not adopted codes which allow this system to be installed.

AIR CONDITIONER CONDENSATE REUSE

Air conditioner condensate can also be considered a source of greywater. Annual air conditioner condensate volume can average between 1500 and 3500 gallons. Inexpensive purification devices are available that make the water useable for pool refilling, irrigation, or make-up water for water-cooled air conditioning units.

RAINWATER HARVESTING

A system for harvesting rainwater can be installed and the water can be used for toilet flushing.

CENTRAL DEHUMIDIFICATION SYSTEM

In addition to controlling humidity and comfort, most central dehumidification equipment also permits the intake of fresh, outside air, thereby improving ventilation in the home.

SOURCE CONTROL

• Use zero and low-Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) paints, stains, and finishes

• Use low-VOC sealants and adhesives.

• Use no exposed urea-formaldehyde particleboard, use phenol-formaldehyde resin

• Minimize carpet use

A remodeling that covers all these areas is going to great lengths to do its part in saving energy for the homeowner and the country, and providing a healthy environment for the inhabitants of the house.

Maria Luisa Castellanos, R.A., LEED AP (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Accredited Professional) is a registered architect, principal of United Architects, Inc., and has been practicing in Florida for over 20 years. For more information or for a free initial consultation if you now own the property you want to improve, go to http://www.architectsinmiami.com. For more free articles on good architectural design and building for long term profit in South Florida or to see photos of her work, go to http://www.unitedarchitectsinc.com. Copyright, Maria Luisa Castellanos, 2009.

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Renovation Innovation For Sustainability

Sustainability; the biggest challenge that interior design is facing in these present times, in times where growth is accompanied with consequences that concerns environment. The industry is up to generating a more sustainable interior design that would complement the modern standards.

Innovation is now making its way in renovation. The designs are on the process of reborn, the concerns with regards to materials to be used and the progression involved are all facing sizable considerations.

Trend would be the best terminology to describe this process. What would be the most ideal interior design trend for today? Interior designs that are ecologically concern and friendly, that is what the industry is after for.

The materials and the process are the two important things where focus is expected to be set to. The materials used for renovation or designing are now diverged into something natural or those so called “indigenous”, materials which can easily be found and does not require too much use of chemical ingredients that would contribute for any possible pollution. The approach would be more relaxing, refreshing and nature-inspired.

The process on how to generate the design is also hot. Interior designers are now up to a deep process of conceptualization on how they would be able to save more resources during installation progression.

Marcella Enriquez; an interior designer Los Angeles specializing in commercial interior design said that the move of the interior design industry is one way of showing its full support on minifying the effects of the global environmental dilemma.

“If we would be able to impart to our clients the importance of our environment, they will learn to appreciate it and there starts their concerns. At least on our small little ways we were able to give our part” she said.

Innovating interior design will still continue, as long as it is seen that it is needed. For once the interior design is after a more sustainable way of living.

About the Author:

Article Source: ArticlesBase.com - Renovation Innovation for Sustainability

Trends In Green Building And Sustainable Construction

"Green Building" is a broad term used to describe the design and construction of sustainable and environmentally conscious buildings.

The driving force behind this is to lower our negative impact on the environment and, at the same time, make the buildings we live and work in safer and healthier for us.

According to the United States Green Building Council (USGBC) statistics,`buildings are responsible for all of the following:

• 39% of US carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions



• 70% of US electricity consumption



• 15 trillion gallons of water consumption

Even though there is still some controversy over the effect of greenhouse gases on the environment, the last two statistics are very important for those of us living in urban areas experiencing continuous growth, especially the American Southwest. With our population expansion, aging water and electrical infrastructure, and shrinking landfills, designing and constructing green and sustainable buildings makes practical sense from a utilitarian perspective.

In fact, USGBC data shows that green buildings use 36% less energy, require fewer raw materials, and divert less waste to our landfills. Furthermore, the "increased" cost of green building is only one or two percent more expensive than a conventional building. This minute difference exemplifies the tangible and long-term benefits of sustainable design, primarily due to the fact that green buildings conserve water and electricity. Thus, while they are more expensive to build, green structures will save money by conserving more energy over time.

Another push towards the green build movement is by local governments. More and more municipalities are adopting the USGBC LEED® (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) guidelines for new and renovated buildings. In 2006, at the USGBC Greenbuild expo, the Mayor of Denver challenged other major cities to see who can have the most LEED® certified green buildings. They are accomplishing this by offering tax breaks to private corporations and mandating sustainable construction for city-financed projects.

This has led to a dramatic increase in the number of sustainable projects built by LEED® Certified general contractors. However, this growth has not come without challenges. Currently, the following issues are restricting the number of green projects being built:

• Increased demand for green products has lead to long lead times



• New and unspecified materials are labeled “green” products which are not necessarily certified



• Building officials are struggling with a steep learning curve on how to evaluate these new products and sustainable building techniques

Despite these difficulties, the USGBC, sustainability advocates, and green building construction management firms are meeting to overcome these challenges.

The LEED® process is constantly under review and continues to adopt the latest codes and products. This includes Standard 189, a new minimum standard for green building. The USGBC is currently developing LEED® 3.0 and working with national code writers to include new products and techniques.

The American Institute of Architects (AIA) has even rolled out a new initiative called "Sustainability 2030," which at its roots, is looking to design all buildings by the year 2030 as carbon neutral. The USGBC has even initiated the Green Advantage Builders Certification for contractors to certify their knowledge in green building techniques.

So what does green building mean at the end of the day? It's simple yet profound: Do the right thing for you, the environment, and the next generation. While most companies are concerned with their bottom line, they ought to embrace the idea that energy and water conservation, green building, and the use of "green materials" in construction stands to increase their savings over time while positioning them as a leader in environmental stewardship.

According to the USGBC, we spend 90% of our time indoors. Due to this fact, scientists have identified an increase in allergies, asthma, absenteeism from school, and even work. There have been numerous studies done on post occupancy productivity levels, which have increased within "green" built facilities. Not only does green adaptation result in less sick days taken, but also shows an increase in productivity, job satisfaction, and in the case of schools, better grades.

So, as we positively affect the environment around us with sustainable green construction, we eventually create better health for ourselves.

About the Author:

Matthew Hancock is a LEED® accredited professional, a Green Advantage Certified Builder and a member of the Dallas chapter of the USGBC. He is a project manager for the Dallas office of Adolfson and Peterson Construction and a proponent of the sustainable and green building movements.

Adolfson & Peterson Construction is a 61-year-old company with offices in Minneapolis, Minnesota; Denver, Colorado; Phoenix, Arizona; and Dallas, Texas (AIA Dallas Chapter 2007 Contractor of the Year). Adolfson & Peterson is currently ranked 72 on the Engineering News-Record Top 400 General Contractors list. Services provided are construction management, design/build, general contracting, LEED® construction capability, Green Advantage® certified personnel, facilities maintenance, Building Information Modeling, and long-term care to various public and private clients.

Interested in learning more about the green building trend? A couple of good resources are the USGBC and the Adolfson & Peterson library of resources on green construction management.

Article Source: ArticlesBase.com - Trends in Green Building and Sustainable Construction

Strict Green Home Designs

The green movement has seen a considerable evolution since the early 70s. In those halcyon days of the Peace Movement, Vietnam War and the winding down of counter culture, building green was in its infancy. Open a brochure of green home designs from the 70s and probably what stared out at you were structures shaped like anthills or cave dwellings. You wondered at the sanity of it all.

The concept of living with the nature, environmentally friendly initiatives was very much a part then, but was the preserve of some people. That has changed to green buildings being built by large construction companies with considerable support from the government. A trendy concept of the 70s has now transformed into an official mascot of many a nations.

In the 70s there was no real professional effort at building green homes. Designs mimicked natural designs of indigenous people without really trying to incorporate the wishes and aspirations of modern day living. There was no concerted effort at scientifically arriving at green home designs. Modern day avatars of green home designs follow a rigid certification code in many counties in the world. In the US, The Leadership in Energy and Environment Design (LEED) is an initiative that sets standards for green home designs. The same standards have been incorporated by some countries while others have evolved their own. In the 70s, green home designs tended to concentrate on stand alone projects. Present day evolution looks at green home designs as a full fledged eco system. Now, factors such as recycling, indigenous practices, environment and architecture are examined holistically.

An important role in the evolution of green home design has been brought by Science. In the 70s powerful computers were not available. Computer Aided Designs (CAD) with wind flow computations and solar capture calculations make designing green homes far more efficient than the 70s. Even greening of construction materials has received an impetus thanks to advances in science. Nature friendly, recycled products, made possible by advances in science are regularly used by construction companies. A typical example is of fly ash, a waste product which can as well be used in mixed cement with same qualities. As our environmental challenges increase and more and more countries recognize that it is our responsibility to conserve our resources, building green homes has become an internationally recognized initiative. Thus green home designs have traveled from a niche specialization in the 70s to the mainstream of the construction business today.

Renewable & Alternative Energy Resources: http://www.alternativeenergybase.com

Find more information about green home building, visit www.GreenHomeGuide.org.

Teach Me About Green Home Construction

With great enthusiasm you have now decided to build your green home. What are steps required to commence your green home construction? Well, for starters there are some basic questions, which need to be asked when planning green home construction. These basic questions are where do you want to build your dream 'green' home? What are the green resources locally available to you? What are the green designs suitable for your dream house? Who else is interested? Is there a suitable architect available? Can my authorities help me? The solutions to these concerns will clarify the way forward for building your green home.

The designs required for construction of green homes will depend largely on the geographical location you choose. If it were in the mountains, a different type of approach would be required, say to a house in the plains or the deserts or by the seaside.

The green resources available locally will come next in your checklist for your green home construction. Your choice would have to be sensible, even though plentiful organic resources are available. For example, choosing to cut down those trees which are plentiful instead of the rare long living variety which are much more difficult to replace. Using products made from material recycled from city's landfill is an option and could be your contribution to national resource conservation.

The dictates of weather will also decide what sort of green design you would want to incorporate. For example, sloping traditional roofs with runnels would be appropriate in wet weather climate rather than flat topped log cabins, which are more suitable for the mountains. Straw bale and compressed earth blocks are more appropriate for 'green' home constructions in warmer regions.

Involving other people is a positive way to ensure the viability of green home construction. Remember, a community effort is always better than 'going at it alone'. Safety in terms of finances as well as conservation of resources. For instance, common swimming pool, common solar panel grid, common water harvesting projects and common recycling plants can easily be shared by a community wishing to build green homes. Novices cannot indulge in green home construction. Get yourself a good architect with proven track record who knows all the pros and cons of green home construction. It would be his ken to advise you on the best tax benefits from the government, the best designs to incorporate and the best resources to use for best use of your money. That should be your mantra for constructing a green home.

Renewable & Alternative Energy Resources: http://www.alternativeenergybase.com

Find more information regarding green home building, visit GreenHomeGuide.org.

The Sustainable City - Documentary

Documentary about sustainability, sustainable development, and green building architecture for cities and communities.

~ 52 Minutes

Toolbox for Sustainable City Living: A do-it-Ourselves Guide

How Will Green Architecture Impact Construction

Green architecture is a concept of designing buildings in a manner that reduces the adverse effect of construction on the people and the environment. Green architecture includes conservation and efficient use of natural resources as also the use of indigenous and recycled material to optimizing the finances. Very simply put, it is the optimum way to get a Better Bang for the Buck. Did you ever wonder why those mud-caked, thatched roofed old houses remained so cool during summers? The answer lies in the advantageous use of local produce and the environment by the indigenous people in building those houses. Modern Green Architecture aims at identifying such indigenous practices and incorporating them into contemporary architectural designs. Optimal use of sunlight and natural wind flow pattern are an integral part of Green Architecture. Green Architectural designs use energy saving devices such as fluorescent lights and solar heaters to make them more energy efficient. Structural designs incorporate concepts such as on site energy generation of wind, biomass and water.

A holistic green designed building looks at all aspects of living like a self-sustaining ecosystem. An example of a self sustaining ecosystem could be waste water recycled for gardens as well as organic wastes generated converted into manure in on-site compost pits. Green Architecture aims to reduce the use of synthetic materials. Toxic fumes generated by aging synthetic paints are a health hazard. Formaldehyde, a component of some synthetic building insulation material is a carcinogen with known health side effects. Green Architecture reduces the use of such material so as to create healthier environment. Green initiatives require concerted national and international effort.

A US effort in setting standards for design and construction practices which have least negative impact on environment and people is exemplified by the Leadership in Energy and Environment Design (LEED). The LEED standard gives different weights to factors such as sustainable sites, water efficiency, energy and atmosphere, material and resources and indoor environmental quality. Based on the weights, certification points are calculated which are graded as Certified, Silver, Gold and Platinum. The highest certification level offered by LEED is Platinum. Canada, India and Israel have adapted the US LEED model for some of their Green Architecture projects. Other countries use their own standards for Green Architecture. Some of the countries adopting own standards for Green Architecture are Australia, France, Germany, Japan , Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand and UK.

The serious environmental conditions facing the world requires a sustained effort by the building industry to make a difference. Such an effort can be initiated through Green Architecture as the standard approach for all construction.

Renewable And Alternative Energy Resources: http://www.alternativeenergybase.com

Information related to sustainable design, go to Aia.org.

Green Building Concepts For The Garage

Everybody talks about green homes and green design but many a time people forget about their garages. The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has found that an attached garage creates a large amount of in-house pollution and affects the health of the occupants. This happens because the interface between the house and the garage is not properly designed reducing the indoor quality of air. Thus, you may have all the green features incorporated in the house, but if you neglect the garage, those green features come to naught.

Car exhaust contains poisonous gases, which are the primary source of indoor air pollution. It is important to use proper low-formaldehyde sealing agents to ensure that garages do not leak their toxic fumes into the house. Other materials found commonly in garages too give off poisonous vapors. The list includes turpentine oil, benzene used by lawn mowers, cleaning agents, and pesticides used for gardening. Investing in a garage exhaust fan that can suck out noxious air is a good option.

Installing a green roof for your garage is a good green innovation. A green roof can be completely or partially covered by grass, plants or other vegetation. Several US companies offer the services of building a green garage roof. The roof is first waterproofed with Thermoplastic Polyolefin (TPO), which is an environmentally friendly and recyclable roofing product. On top of the TPO layer, water retention and filter layers are put. Next comes the top most layer, the growing medium, which is a light weight mixture of rock and soil. Drought resistant plants with shallow roots are the ideal choice for this type of roof. The environmental advantages of a green roof are many. Green roofs help reduce noise pollution, filter rainwater and reduce the cost of cooling your house. Respiration of plants helps reduce ambient heat in the surroundings. The plants absorb sunlight and reduce the heat from reaching the roof surface thereby increasing the life of the roof. According to a recent study, a green roofed garage can produce enough oxygen for 25 people and also remove eight kg of pollutants annually. A green thatched garage not only improves aesthetics but also attracts birds, which increases the biodiversity of your area.

Renewable And Alternative Energy Resources: http://www.alternativeenergybase.com