The Case for Green Building and Retrofit

• Buildings are responsible for 39 percent of all energy consumption, 72 percent of all electricity consumption, and 55 percent of natural gas use in the United States.
• Buildings are responsible for 38 percent of all carbon dioxide emissions in the United States.
• Buildings represent 14 percent of potable water use in the United States, also amenable to significant efficiency improvement.
• Energy efficiency in buildings can readily be improved in most cases using existing technologies to reduce building energy consumption by 25 percent or more.

The perception still exists that a certified sustainable building will cost 17% more than a "standard" building. However, the reality is that the initial additional cost is only 5% more, and that up-front difference is made up very quickly in operating cost efficiencies.

Why do owners and occupants like Green Buildings?

• Lowers operating costs
• Increases return on investment
• Improves tenant satisfaction
• Reduces energy and water consumption
• Improves indoor air quality