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Why Build Green?
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A: In the United States, construction activity accounts for:
- 36% of total energy use/65% of electricity consumption
- 30% of greenhouse gas emissions
- 30% of raw materials use
- 30% of waste output/136 million tons annually
- 12% of potable water consumption
(www.usgbc.org)
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Building Green conserves natural resources, reduces solid waste, improves air and water quality, and better protects the ecosystem and biodiversity. |
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Is there an economic benefit to building green?
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A: Yes, some benefits include reduced operating costs, improved employee productivity and satisfaction, enhanced asset value and profits, and optimal life-cycle economic performance. |
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Are there health and community benefits to building green?
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A: Absolutely, besides contributing to the overall quality of life, building green improves air, thermal and acoustic environments. It also minimizes strain on local infrastructure and enhances occupant comfort and health. |
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What is the USGBC?
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A: The USGBC is the United States Building Council. The council is a nonprofit organization made up of product manufacturers, environmental advocates, design professionals, retail owners and financial institutions. In total, the council includes more than 9,000 member organizations and a network of 75 regional chapters dedicated to transforming the building industry to sustainability. Barton Malow has been a member of the USGBC since 2002. |
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What is LEED?
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A: LEED®, the "Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design" Green Building Rating System, is the nationally accepted standard for green buildings developed by the USGBC membership. LEED promotes a whole-building approach to sustainability by recognizing performance in five key areas of human and environmental health: sustainable site development, water savings, energy efficiency, materials selection, and indoor environmental quality. |
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Who can use LEED?
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A: Everyone: Architects, real estate professionals, facility managers, engineers, interior designers, landscape architects, construction managers, lenders, government officials. |
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Are there different types of LEED?
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A: Specific LEED programs include:
- New Commercial Construction and Major Renovation projects
- Existing Building Operations and Maintenance
- Commercial Interiors projects
- Core and Shell Development projects
- Homes
- LEED for Schools
- Neighborhood Development
- LEED for Retail
USGBC is also developing LEED for Healthcare, and LEED for Labs.
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What is a LEED AP?
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A: LEED AP stands for LEED Accredited Professional. This accreditation is a formal recognition by the US Green Building Council of industry professionals that have passed an exam about the LEED Rating System. Barton Malow currently has 31 LEED AP’s. |
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