Preface
Who Should Use This Resource
This resource is a guide to green building for project developers and for the design, construction, and facility operation professionals they hire. The resource also can be used by technical assistance providers who work with businesses and institutions that may be planning construction or remodeling projects.
Things to Keep in Mind
The resource takes a holistic perspective. It recommends that buildings be designed and constructed as integrated systems. The holistic approach can be the most effective path toward constructing buildings that are high-value economic and environmental assets.
For convenience, the resource is organized by topic. It is important, however, to avoid considering the topics in isolation from other topics. Buildings are whole systems with elements that interact. Choices made for one building element may have significant effects on other elements. For example, building material choices may affect energy efficiency. Consequently, it is essential to keep that whole systems perspective in mind when looking at each of the topical areas in this resource.
Some resources will be of special interest to certain building professionals. Others focus on types of building projects, or specific geographic areas. Those resources will be noted accordingly.
Lastly, each building project has unique needs and characteristics. There is no one “right” solution that will work in every situation. The important thing to keep in mind is that a holistic approach can deliver a building that will deliver lasting value to the owners, users, and the community at large.
