ELEMENTS OF GREEN CONSTRUCTION
 I. Materials
Work with your architect to specify materials that are sustainable and healthy for building occupants. Here are some key factors that make some materials more sustainable and healthy than others:
- Durable/long life – does not have to be replaced quickly
- Materials with a high recycled content
- Low VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds) adhesives, paints and flooring
 Formaldehyde-free composite wood and laminates- Rapidly renewable materials such as bamboo and linoleum flooring
- Sustainably harvested, FSC certified wood products (FSC is the Forest Stewardship Council, an international organization that promotes sustainable forestry)
- Locally sourced materials
II. Construction Waste Management
Require that your general contractor develop a Construction Waste Management Plan with a requirement of at least 50% waste diversion for the project (65% in Oakland). This is mandated by many local jurisdictions in Alameda County and throughout the Bay Area. This plan can include the following elements:
- Identify opportunities for reuse of materials elsewhere in the building or within your company.
- Identify haulers and recyclers that are able to recycle a large percentage of your waste.
- Use salvaged or reused furniture in your project.
III. Indoor Air Quality
You know that “new car smell” that permeates a new suite? That is mainly due to the off-gassing of VOC's from new carpets, paint and vinyl composition tile (VCT). Formaldehyde and other chemicals contribute to poor air quality and lower the productivity of incoming tenants. In order to reduce the risk, follow the following strategies:
- Develop a plan to minimize levels of hazardous dust and chemicals in suite
- Spec materials such as carpet, paint, and VCT with low VOC's
- Spec materials such as composite wood and laminate that are formaldehyde-free
- Locate copiers and printers by ventilation and away from workstations
- Flush completed suite completely before occupancy
IV. Energy Efficiency
See Energy Efficiency Chapter
V. Water Efficiency
See Water Efficiency Chapter
VI. HVAC
Design for Efficiency
Use Energy Star Appliances and Equipment
See Energy Efficiency Chapter
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