Crack open a few books and scan some magazine articles and you’ll quickly realize that what constitutes “green building” can vary greatly. For some folks, it means using recycled materials. For others, it can mean achieving a highly efficient building envelope. Alex Wilson, the publisher of www.buildinggreen.com, uses the term “green building” to describe building design and construction that has some or all of the following characteristics:
- Minimizes adverse impacts on local, regional, and global ecosystems
- Reduces reliance on automobiles
- Uses energy efficiently
- Conserves water
- Built environmentally responsibly, with low-impact, durable, and low-maintenance materials
- Helps occupants recycle “wastes”
- Comfortable, safe, and healthy for occupants
