|
|
What is Green Building?
Green Building practices promote construction
of buildings that are healthier for the occupants and healthier for the
environment. The City of San José’s Green Building Policy establishes
sustainability as a City priority and further demonstrates the City’s
commitment to the environment. Sustainable or “green” building
practices can reduce the tremendous impact that building design, construction
and maintenance has on both people and nature. According to the U.S. Department
of Energy's Center for Sustainable Development, buildings consume 40%
of the world's total energy, 25% of its wood harvest and 16% of its water.
The building industry is the nation's largest manufacturing activity,
representing more than 50% of the nation's wealth and 13% of its Gross
Domestic Product. Energy and material consumption in buildings can contribute
significantly to global climate change.
Sustainable building practices go beyond energy and water conservation to incorporate environmentally sensitive site planning, resource efficient building materials and superior indoor environmental quality. Some of the key benefits are:
- lower electric and water utility costs
- environmentally effective use of building materials
- enhanced health and productivity
- long-term economic returns
- reduced environmental impact
In addition to requiring City buildings to be designed and built using Green Building principles, the City of San José encourages building owners, architects, developers, and contractors to incorporate meaningful sustainable building goals early in building design process. By using the United States Green Building Council's Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED™) Rating System to document sustainable building features, project teams can publicize their progress.
Updated 6-16-08 |
|
|
|
