Why Build Green?

On average, the construction, maintenance and use of buildings are responsible for 40% of all the energy use in the U.S. With only 5% of the world's population, the U.S. uses 25% of the world's energy resources and contributes more than 25% of the world's greenhouse gas emissions.

By building green, we can protect the natural world and even have a positive impact. Typical building construction, use, and demolition, as well as the manufacturing of building materials, contribute significantly to environmental problems.

GREEN BUILDING HAS TANGIBLE ECONOMIC AND PUBLIC HEALTH BENEFITS
Lower operating costs via reduced energy and water utility bills. Reduced maintenance and replacement costs due to greater durability of materials. Improved indoor environmental quality through the use of non-toxic materials. Reduced risk of childhood asthma and other respiratory diseases. Higher productivity, less absenteeism, and reduced insurance costs. Preservation of natural habitats, watersheds, and ecosystems, protection of air and water quality, reduction in greenhouse gas emissions and solid waste. Improved health and performance: students achieve 20% better performance in green schools, patients are discharged an average of 2.5 days earlier in green hospitals	AVERAGE SAVINGS OF GREEN BUILDINGS
	HEALTH GAINS FROM IMPROVED INDOOR AIR QUALITY