Green build

 Green building (also known as green construction or sustainable building) refers to both a structure and the application of processes that are environmentally responsible, and resource-efficient throughout a building's life-cycle: from planning to design, construction, operation, maintenance, renovation, and demolition. This requires close cooperation of the contractor, the architects, the engineers, and the client at all project stages. The Green Building practice expands and complements the classical building design concerns of economy, utility, durability, and comfort. In doing so, the three dimensions of sustainability i.e., planet, people and profit across the entire supply chain need to be considered. 

 In times our planet’s finite amount of resources are becoming increasingly troubling, it’s important that commercial construction companies are prioritizing sustainable design and construction techniques. Commercial buildings are a large contributor to the planet’s energy usage — approximately 40 percent, in fact — so switching over to green building techniques wherever possible is no longer optional but necessary.

 With that said, though, it can be intimidating to attempt to sell a client on green building practices. In some cases, eco-friendly construction methods are assumed to be synonymous with more expensive construction methods. However, this doesn’t have to be the case. By considering the following eight sustainable building techniques, you’ll be well on your way to implementing green building practices that benefit the client, the community, and the planet as a whole.

The most criticized issue about constructing environmentally friendly buildings is the price. Photovoltaics, new appliances, and modern technologies tend to cost more money. Most green buildings cost a premium of <2%, but yield 10 times as much over the entire life of the building. In regards to the financial benefits of green building, over 20 years, the financial payback typically exceeds the additional cost of greening by a factor of 4-6 times and broader benefits, such as reductions in greenhouse gases and other pollutants have large positive impacts on surrounding communities and on the planet. The stigma is between the knowledge of up-front cost vs. life-cycle cost. The savings in money come from more efficient use of utilities which result in decreased energy bills. It is projected that different sectors could save $130 billion on energy bills.