What is a green building?
A “green building” is one that has been designed and constructed to have a minimal impact on the environment. Things such as energy and water consumption of the completed structure, as well as the use of recycled building materials in the construction, are all factored in from the beginning design phases.
The U.S. Office of the Federal Environmental Executive (OFEE) defines green buildings as those that: • demonstrate the efficient use of energy, water, and materials • limit impact on the outdoor environment • provide a healthier indoor environment Studies show that green buildings offer improved air quality and more access to daylight in addition to energy and cost savings. The USGBC estimates that green buildings cost 8% to 9% less to operate, and have a 7.5% greater building value.
Green buildings are those that are environmentally efficient on many levels. There is a national system that ranks these buildings, helping developers and consumers achieve a common knowledge, understanding, and evaluation of green building practices. Currently, ISU has one LEED Certified building on campus. Morrill Hall has LEED Silver Certification. LEED, Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design is a Green Building Rating SystemTM developed by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC). The System rates buildings from points earned in five categories (with an option for additional credits for innovation) and ranks them (if they meet the point requirements) as LEED Certified, LEED Silver, LEED Gold or LEED Platinum. Read more about LEED. Though no other buildings are officially certified on campus, three buildings, the Alumni Center, Coover Hall and Snedecor Hall have met all certification criteria. The College of Design’s new King Pavilion is striving for LEED Platinum. In addition
Green buildings are designed to reduce waste, water and energy usage, enhance occupant comfort and create healthier environment. Green buildings may also be referred to as: “sustainable”; high performance”; “healthy”; or “resource efficient” buildings. A green building should have a high priority on health, environmental and resource conservation performance over its life-cycle.
A. The U.S. government defines green buildings as those that demonstrate the efficient use of energy, water and materials; limit impact on the outdoor environment; and provide a healthier indoor environment. Studies show that green buildings offer improved air quality and more access to daylight in addition to energy and cost savings.
