Green building gaining ground

Green energy programs in the realm of the United States of America have become the order of the day thanks to the initiative of President Obama and now every state in the union is entering the foray. They are perceived to make best efforts to attract and develop green energy programs and companies to grow their economy to meet these new federal initiatives. In this regard Gov. Jack Markell of Delaware and Gov. Martin O’Malley of Maryland deserve special mentions. They have brought to the fore innovative programs to promote and grow the new green economy within these two states.

However, in spite of this, it seems that they are lagging behind since private sector, particularly the building industry, is way ahead. They have entered into the domain of green technologies already and are leaving no stone unturned to make use of it. In this regard, the credit goes to the United States Green Building Council who has become instrumental in coordinating the establishment and evolution of a national consensus effort. Its main and (perhaps) only objective is to provide the industry with the tools necessary to design, build and operate buildings that deliver high performance inside and outside the building footprint.

The Green Building Council has been able to render a coherent picture to the LEED standard (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design). What is LEED in fact? It is a rating system which has its basis in optimum site selection and sustainability, water efficiency, energy and atmosphere optimization, materials and resources (renewable and recyclable base), and indoor environmental quality.

According to experts, the introduction of this ranking system and the efficacy of green buildings can be termed as a blessing for the worst-affected real estate sector. It is being regarded as the only ploy that can stimulate the sector to commence afresh its plans for more buildings (the bulk of which have been postponed). Last but not least, this single approach can handle the rising concerns over global arming, increased energy costs, sustainable buildings or the stigma attached to a wasteful society.