GREEN CONSTRUCTION
Green construction is defined as, "An organized effort to design and build
buildings using a process and materials which promote environmental sustainability..
Using specialized architectural design, building techniques, and
environmentally friendly construction products we can construct for
you a new facility that is energy efficient and environmentally friendly."
According to the United States Green Building Council, buildings in the
United States alone account for:
- 65% of electricity consumption,
- 36% of energy use
- 30% of greenhouse gas emissions,
- 30% of raw materials use,
- 30% of waste output (136 million tons annually), and
- 12% of potable water consumption.
The purpose of using Green Building techniques are to lower these numbers.
Buildings can be designed to utilize the maximum potential of natural
sunlight, use efficient and low energy mechanical systems and appliances,
use high efficiency light fixtures that operate on timers and dimmers to
conserve energy, use recycled building materials or environmentally
friendly products, and much, much more.
While the initial cost of building a Green Building may be higher then
conventional construction, the long term benefits greatly outweight the
initial cost. The benefits of Green Building can be broken down into
three categories: Environmental, economical, and health and community
benefits.
Environmental:
- Enhance and protect ecosystem and biodiversity
- Improve air and water quality
- Reduce solid waste
- Conserve natural resources
Economical:
- Reduce operating costs
- Enhance asset value and profits
- Improve employee productivity and satisfaction
- Optimize life-cycle economic performance
Health & Community:
- Improve, air, thermal, and acoustic environments
- Enhance occupant comfort and health
- Minimize strain and local infrastructure
- Contribute to overall quality of life
Green Building techniques are not just for new building construction; the
principals of Green construction can be used for your existing structures
as well. Improvements such as high efficiency lighting fixtures, timers
and dimming systems for lights, high efficiency mechanical systems,
improved building insulation, and the use of environmentally friendly
chemicals are all ways you can improve your existing structure.
If reducing your impact on the environment while reducing operating costs
for your business is an important part of your next construction project,
contact us to discuss Green Building techniques that can be used on your
project.
For more information about the USGBC visit them on the web at www.usgbc.org
Contact Us
P: 330.683.4498
F: 330.683.1952
info@imhoffinc.com
