The construction of buildings and other infrastructures using sustainable technologies and materials is key to initiatives that aim to improve the quality of life of the environment. Green building, also known as sustainable or high-performance building, is the practice of creating structures and using processes that are environmentally responsible and efficient in the use of resources throughout the life cycle of a building, from location to design, construction, operation, maintenance, renovation and deconstruction. This practice expands and complements classic building design concerns in terms of economy, utility, durability, and convenience. ENERGY STAR is a certification for energy efficient buildings, while green building certifications are for environmentally friendly buildings in more general terms. The EPA believes that energy efficiency is the first step towards ecology and that all green properties must be energy efficient.
Using ENERGY STAR tools and resources, and ENERGY STAR recognition when available, will ensure that your green properties (whether certified by LEED or another system) are truly energy efficient. At the beginning of the 21st century, efforts were made to implement the principles of green building not only in individual buildings but also in neighborhoods and villages. Care is also taken to select materials that are sustainably produced, that come from natural and renewable sources, and that require minimal transportation. There are several reasons to build green, including environmental, economic and social benefits. To achieve environmentally friendly and energy efficient homes, green building materials and technology can help maintain environmental objectives. Green buildings often include measures to reduce energy consumption, both the built-in energy needed to extract, process, transport and install building materials and the operating energy to provide services such as heating and energy for equipment.
National laboratories, private companies, universities and industry are carrying out research on green buildings. Wood itself is considered hypoallergenic and its smooth surfaces prevent the accumulation of particles common in soft finishes such as carpets. As a result of growing interest in green building concepts and practices, several organizations have developed standards, codes, and classification systems for use by government regulators, building professionals, and consumers. The working group seeks to develop effective EPA leadership in the green building movement by jointly informing, coordinating, and guiding the development of the Agency's policies, programs, partnerships, communications, and operations that influence construction and development. The energy efficiency of green buildings can be evaluated using numerical or non-numerical methods. That's why ENERGY STAR complements major green building certification systems such as LEED and Green Globes.
The EPA has several programs that provide resources to help you learn more about the components of green building and how to incorporate these green building concepts into different types of buildings. To control and maintain this alarming situation many builders and other construction industries are now focusing on the phenomenal concept of green building.
