Green architecture produces buildings that consume lower engery, water, and construction products.  Green buildings also require less maintenace and infrastructure. Read more on Green Architecture...

The focus of green architecture is for the project to work in harmony with the natural features and resources surrounding the site, to use materials that are recycled or easily grown, and to maximize the efficiency of the building. Good green architecture reduces waste, of both energy and material. During construction phase, the goal is to reduce the amount of material going to landfills. Well designed buildings also help reduce the amount of waste generated by the occupants as well, by providing onsite solutions such as compost bins to reduce matter going to landfills.

The use and demolition of conventional building construction along with the manufacturing of building materials, has multiple impacts on the local, regional, and global environment. For example, in the United States, buildings account for 65% of electricity consumption, 30% of greenhouse gas emissions, 30% of raw materials use, 30% of landfill waste and 12% of potable water consumption. Additionally, a correlation between poor indoor air quality and respiratory health problems, leading to reduced productivity and increased absenteeism has been proven through numerous studies. These facts make it clear that green architecture and construction is beneficial to the environment and to workers.
Here are some examples of ways to achieve green architecture and construction.

Low-impact building materials are used wherever feasible: for example, insulation may be made from low VOC (volatile organic compound)-emitting materials such as recycled denim, rather than the fiberglass insulation which is dangerous to breathe. To discourage insect damage, the insulation may be treated with boric acid. Organic or milk-based paints may be used.

Building materials may be sought within a 500-mile radius of the building site to minimize the use of fuel for transportation. The building itself may be oriented a particular direction to take advantage of naturally occurring features such as wind direction and angle of the sun. There are many advantages to utilizing natural light, including a reduced dependence on artificial (energy-using) light sources. When possible, building materials may be taken from the site itself. For example, if a new structure is being constructed in a wooded area, wood from the trees which were cut to make room for the building would be re-used as part of the building itself.  Well-insulated windows, doors, and walls help reduce energy loss, thereby reducing energy usage. To further address energy loss hot water heat recycling is used to reduce energy usage for domestic water heating. These and other sources of green architecture and construction minimize the amount of energy used by a building or home.

To reduce the impact on wells or water treatments plants, several options exist. "Greywater", wastewater from sources such as dishwashing or washing machines, can be used to flush toilets, water lawns, and wash cars. Rainwater collectors are used for similar purposes, and some homes use specially designed rainwater collectors to gather rainwater for all water use, including drinking water.

Architectural salvage and reclaimed materials are used when appropriate as well. When older buildings are demolished, frequently any good wood is reclaimed, renewed, and sold as flooring. Many other parts are reused as well, such as doors, windows, mantels, and hardware, thus reducing the consumption of new goods. When new materials are employed, green designers look for materials that are rapidly replenished, such as bamboo, which can be harvested for commercial use after only 6 years of growth, or cork oak, in which only the outer bark is removed for use, thus preserving the tree.

What are the benefits of green buildings?

Direct financial benefits of green buildings come from lower energy and water bills and the reduced need for maintenance and infrastructure. For example, designing for on-site water retention can lead to downsizing or eliminating storm water conveyance pipes. Indirect benefits of green buildings include improved health of residents and increased productivity of employees. The global benefits of green building include the protection of natural resources and the mitigation of climate change.

Does it cost more to build green?

A common misperception is that green buildings cost significantly more than conventional buildings. In fact the increased cost for green buildings is typically 5%, depending on the features, building type, and location. In some projects, where green measures are considered early and fully integrated into the building design, there is no increased cost.

Is it cost effective for the local government to develop and implement a green building program?

Developing and implementing a green building program is a practical and proactive way for your local government to address multiple issues under a common theme or “umbrella”. By linking and augmenting existing efforts and procedures green building adds significant value for relatively low additional cost and without overburdening staff or department budgets.

Are green building materials hard to find?

A common misunderstanding is that green buildings require exotic, hard-to-find products. While a valid concern in the early days of green building, the supply and availability of green materials, such as recycled-content carpet or energy efficient appliances, is no longer a significant issue in most regions. As the demand for green buildings continues to grow rapidly, building material manufacturers are responding by either offering new green products or by improving the environmental performance of well-known product lines. For example, most national paint manufacturers now offer environmentally friendly products that have reduced levels of harmful volatile organic compounds (VOCs).