Green buildings are becoming increasingly popular, and for good reason. Not only do they leave less of a footprint on the environment, they also result in huge overall savings. Even the U.S. government is taking advantage of financial benefits green buildings can provide.
A perfect example of this is the United States Treasury building, which was built in 1836. Since the federal building received its green renovation that left it environmentally-friendly, operating costs have been reduced by $3.5 million per year. That’s a savings worth bragging about.
Sustainability
In 2009, government agencies were asked to lead the way on sustainability. The goal of this initiative is to find ways to manage systems less expensively and more effectively. In other words, this is a way to address bureaucratic inefficiencies.
Government facilities, agencies, and departments across the nation have stepped up to the plate and accepted the challenge. They have found innovative ways to save money while working more efficiently.
Changes include improvements in things like methods of data processing, capitalizing on the use of natural light, and in some cases, even generating electricity through the use of wind farms. Historic buildings are being updated to include modern green modifications, and new buildings include sustainable elements.
Relieving Sick Building Syndrome
Sick building syndrome is common in older and existing buildings. It can be caused by radon, mold, smoke, dust mites, bacteria, or various indoor pollutants. People who work in the building may complain of a dry cough, skin or eye irritation, fatigue, fever, nausea, dizziness, or headache. However, the symptoms may be relieved or at least reduced when not inside the building.
It’s common knowledge that indoor pollutants are higher than those found outdoors. Asthma and other illnesses can be trigger by indoor pollutants.
Sick building syndrome can be relieved through green modification renovations. Healthy ventilation systems combined with the use of non-toxic building materials make it possible for buildings to be healthier and safer places to be. The quality of life inside the buildings is improved. In effect, occupants of green buildings will be less likely to catch the flu or to have stressful days than occupants of other buildings.
Improved Productivity
Not surprisingly, these healthy individuals that work in green buildings are comfortable, and they are also very productive. Some studies have shown that absenteeism has been reduced after the environmental modifications have been instituted, and others have shown decreases in sick days. Agencies that have LEED-certified buildings are likely to find it easier to attract qualified employees and to retain them.
A Role Model
The Treasury building is a true role model for government facilities. After all, this building is older, but it made the switch to eco-friendly improvements. In fact, the U.S. Treasury earned the LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Gold certification for its efforts.
Noted improvements include an increased use of natural daylight (which reduced energy consumption), the development and implementation of an HVAC system, audits that ensure maximum recycling and conservation efforts, increased use of occupant space, and a focus on energy-efficient transportation. Overall, the efforts resulted in huge benefits and savings. For instance, 164 new work stations made more efficient use of the building’s space; at the same time, there was a savings of 7% in the use of electricity. Even more substantial is the decrease of 53% in steam use.
About LEED Certification
LEED is a rating system developed by the U.S. Green Building Council. The LEED Green Building Certification System is based on a points rating. Building projects earn points for meeting green building criteria. There are four certification categories: Certified (40-49 points), Silver (50-59 points), Gold (60-79 points), and Platinum (80 points and above).
According to information found at USGBC.org, designing green buildings does not have to cost more than designing other buildings. The advantages of these buildings are clear. The benefits of LEED certification include the fact that the building receives third-party validation of its performance.
The building will produce high-lease rates, and it will be a healthy and safe environment for occupants. It will be energy efficient. Overall, these buildings cost less to maintain, and they can add to a positive reputation for an agency or company that cares about the environment.
Government Assistance
The government is trying to make things easier for government agencies and buildings to go green. It has set up a fabulous tool at SFTool.gov that allows agencies to do everything from gather information to actually purchase green materials. Projects can be compared to see which is most cost-effective.
The idea is that when government buildings go green, everyone saves. In the end, the savings will go the taxpayers. Green building with government agencies is also a terrific way to encourage the public to be more eco-friendly.
Like the Treasury building, all government facilities should lead by example. They should demonstrate to the public how environmental modifications can be cost-effective.
Building New Is Easier
Many engineers and architects agree: Designing a new building with a focus on energy-efficiency is usually easier than trying to retro-fit an existing building with modern environmental modifications. The simple fact is, when building new, you can start with the focus from the ground up.
When working with older buildings, you may have to deal with shapes and designs that are somewhat out of touch with modern plans. However, many older buildings have certain “comfort” features built-in. For instance, they may have large windows strategically placed in order to take advantage of natural light and heat sources.
The bottom line is, whether building new or transforming an older building, going green is not just about money. It is about enhanced lifestyles, environmental advantages, and economical benefits. With so much to gain, can we really afford not to build green?
—
Debbie Allen is a freelance writer, blogger, and online marketer. She enjoys sharing writing tips and information about small business management. Some of Debbie’s articles focus on the successes of business professionals like Gary Crittenden and Steve Wynn.