INTRODUCTION TO GREEN CONSTRUCTION

What is Green Construction?

Green construction looks beyond the readily apparent aspects of the office or building to create a space that addresses the comfort, health and broader environmental impacts of the construction/remodeling process.  The Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Green Building Rating System™, developed by the U.S. Green Building Council, is the primary certification used to measure and designate green buildings.   

Why do Green Construction?

Buildings, infrastructure and the environment are inextricably linked. Energy, materials, water and land are all consumed in the construction and operation of buildings and infrastructure.  Green construction aims to create the balance between what we seek to build and what our environment can ultimately support.

Construction of green buildings/spaces is good for companies’ bottom lines.  It can increase productivity by making employees more comfortable and healthy.  In some cases it is more cost effective, saving money on utility bills and operating costs.  Beyond the financial rewards, green construction helps the larger environment.  Green building/spaces consume less energy and natural resources and reduce the waste and pollution we create.
           
How to do Green Construction

The following six steps are adapted from the HOK Guidebook to Sustainable Design:

1. Project Definition: Construction Manager, Tenant (if it is a tenant improvement project), and Architect should establish sustainable construction tasks in the scope of work, contract agreement, and project schedule.
2. Team Building: Select design team members with experience in sustainable design.
3. Education and Goal Setting: Gather team and discuss the project, identify challenges and opportunities for greening the project, and set measurable sustainability goals.
4. Documents and Specifications: Carefully document all project requirements and ensure that the goals are reflected in all construction documents and specifications.
5. Bidding and Construction: Engage design team and owners in collaborative approach to bidding, construction and commissioning.
6. Post Occupancy: Engage entire team and occupants in discussion and conduct a post occupancy evaluation to evaluate the project and identify lessons learned.