The phrase "building green" has been thrown around alot lately. Most have no clue as to what it means or why it could be important.

So, just what is green building?   

A green building is designed to conserve resources and reduce negative impacts on the environment - whether it is energy, water, building materials or land. Compared to conventional construction, green buildings may use one or more renewable energy systems for heating and cooling. Choices include solar electric, solar hot water, geothermal, bio mass, or any combination of these. Other techniques, such as using packed gravel for parking lots instead of concrete or asphalt to enhance replenishment of ground water, are also highly encouraged.

Effective green buildings are more than just a random collection of environmental friendly technologies. They require careful, systemic attention to the impact of the resources used in the building, to resource consumption and pollution emissions over the building's life cycle.

Green building corresponds to the characteristics of a building, its equipment (goods and services) and the site. It includes the construction or adaptation of the building. This allows it to meet the needs for managing impacts on the outside environment and helps create a comfortable and healthy interior environment for those who will dwell therein.

Green building also strives to maximize use of local resources. This focus contributes to the growth of local economies and reduces transport of desired materials.

A green building may cost more up front, but saves through lower operating costs over the life of the building. The benefits of green buildings range from energy and water savings, to overall environmental sustainability and conscientious use of local resources. Over a building’s lifetime, these benefits outweigh slightly higher average initial costs.

Green buildings are gaining increased recognition. Designers have completed many unique projects which showcase a great deal of innovation, ingenuity and appeal. Even green renovations can be done with a tight budget, many with minimal up-front costs, yet they can yield enormous savings.

Business owners can now plan for sustainable buildings that will benefit not only their pocket but the people who work there as well. Hopefully through  education more will make the shift and see the benefits of building green.