Green Construction

Buildings may seem to be passive, benign structures, but you may be surprised by their detrimental effect on the environment: Buildings account for more than one-third of carbon-dioxide emissions, 40% of municipal solid waste sent to landfills, and about 40% of U.S. energy consumption, according to the Pacific Northwest Pollution Prevention Resource Center. Approaching building design and construction from a green-building perspective can significantly reduce these environmental impacts.

This guide helps project developers and design, construction, and facility professionals plan buildings from a holistic, green perspective. Find information and resources on green-building frameworks, water and energy efficiency, indoor air quality, environmentally preferable materials, and more. Each chapter provides a list of sample questions to consider when building healthy, efficient structures. Also included in the guide are case studies and links to resources for technical and financial assistance, software, and news about green buildings. The guide is available online.