Green buildings are eco-friendly structures that use less energy and other natural resources while contributing to a healthier environment for their occupants.
Green building practices go beyond existing construction standards by choosing eco-friendly materials that last longer and reduce maintenance costs, adding value and decreasing maintenance expenses.
Environmentally friendly
Green buildings reduce environmental impact by minimizing energy use, water waste and emissions, using recycled and biodegradable materials wherever possible, and using circular design principles that consider all aspects of a project from its inception (raw material extraction to manufacturing to building construction to operation, maintenance and eventually demolition – read Life Cycle Assessment) through to deconstruction (read Life Cycle Assessment).
Many green buildings rely on renewable energy sources like solar panels for power, as well as employing daylighting and thermal mass techniques to maximize comfort without using electricity.
Location is of equal importance when choosing where to build. In ideal cases, buildings should be situated near plenty of green space to reduce impact on the natural environment, while supporting local businesses and drawing talent in. Buildings contribute significantly to greenhouse gas emissions; green buildings must therefore be constructed responsibly as part of efforts to combat climate change.
Energy efficient
Green buildings use less materials and energy, thereby lowering their environmental footprint. This includes both embodied energy (the amount used to manufacture, transport and install materials) as well as operational energy use such as heating/lighting the building.
Renewable energy sources like solar, wind power and geothermal systems help them minimize their reliance on fossil fuels. Daylighting techniques used by designers – including physically positioning roofs, walls, awnings and windows in summer to provide cooling shade while taking advantage of solar warmth in winter – are another great way to cut costs associated with electricity consumption.
Green buildings reduce indoor air pollutants that contribute to respiratory diseases, asthma and other health concerns, helping increase productivity and occupant satisfaction. Their design also takes into account potential natural disaster risks such as flooding and fire; by positioning them in safe areas they reduce costly mitigation activities.
Healthy for occupants
Occupants of green buildings often report feeling healthier, happier, and more productive due to improved indoor air quality and natural sunlight for illumination. Furthermore, green building tenants experience access to outdoor spaces more readily while sleeping more soundly at night. Furthermore, using less energy and water means reduced carbon dioxide emissions that harm the environment.
Studies demonstrate that people living and working in green buildings experience significantly decreased rates of asthma, respiratory infections, and sick days; additionally they spend more time outdoors which has great health benefits for them.
Commercial real estate has increasingly embraced sustainability and human wellness goals as primary objectives, with new rating systems such as Fitwel and WELL supporting this shift in built environments. They allow a more holistic view on design, construction and operation of buildings; creating an holistic yet sustainable world.
Increased value
Green buildings offer property owners, investors, and tenants alike an excellent return on their investments. Green properties reduce energy usage and save money; their long-lasting construction includes sustainable materials as well as water saving features for better environmental impact and to provide healthier work experiences for occupants.
As a result, green buildings command higher market values than their non-green counterparts. Furthermore, with ESG becoming a standard framework for real estate valuation, demand for sustainable commercial spaces continues to increase rapidly.
Green buildings typically have lower operating costs and are more likely to retain their value when sold or leased, as tenants seek space that aligns with their corporate sustainability strategies and reduce collection loss. Furthermore, green buildings may generate extra income via on-site renewable energy generation or smart technology that minimizes operational waste.