It is very common to see something about Green in our newspapers and magazines. Include television and the internet and it is a fair thing to say the we are at times in Green Overload. Yet, I believe there are many who do not have a clear understanding of what Green really means. Since this blog is going to be mainly about Green, Energy, Environmental, Building topics and other matters connected and even occasionally disconnected from those topics, lets start off with a reasonable definition of Green as it relates to the building industry. ‘Green Building is the process of design and construction techniques based upon energy efficiency, water efficiency, durability, indoor air quality and comfort and the use of products that have a positive impact on the environment.’ I wrote this definition for the Built Green Program of Colorado in 1995.
So regardless of the Building type whether it is residential, commercial, industrial, educational etc, that definition will be acceptable to most of us. It provides all builders with a solid foundation and easy for most anyone to understand. I believe that the cornerstone of Green Building is energy efficiency. That is the basis of all Green Buildings in all climate zones. Obviously different climate zones have different heating, cooling, power and lighting needs.
It is simpler for us to understand and appreciate the benefits of energy efficient homes. Lower utility bills, less of an impact on the environment and better indoor comfort.
Here is a link to a Green Building Program that will provide more good information on this topic.
Green Regards,
John Kurowski