All Entries in the "Green Architecture" Category

Green Construction rapidly increasing

Manufacturers are making it easier than ever to find environmentally friendly products to construct buildings with.  But are owners and builders responding?  The overwhelming answer is “yes”.

In 2005 green building accounted for only 2% of the construction market.  Now, based on current statistics and purchasing trends green building is set to represent 25% of all construction by 2013, and 20% of all new residential construction.  Currently green building is a $93 billion industry.  By 2013, according to McGraw Hill, the green building sector will be at $140 billion.

Implementation of LEED building standards has been a huge motivational force for the construction industry, as many building owners and operators expect their facilities to be certified.  Large corporations want buildings that correlate with the environmental responsibility aspects of their companies.  As for the typical American residence, building trends are starting to change.  In June of this year LEED for Homes was introduced, for the first time providing a set of guidelines geared toward residential construction.  The Energy Star certification for house plans and completed residences represents another credential that builders want to make sure their homes comply with.  The labels are nice, but what this really means to consumers is that repsonsible, environmentally friendly, energy-efficient buildings are becoming a reality.  That’s good news for everyone.