WHEN thinking about "green" buildings, we usually understand the positive impact on the environment, but many are also interested in the business case for going green.
LEED, or Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, is the well known building certification system managed by the Canada Green Building Council. It encourages building developers and owners to use sustainable practices and materials by recognizing performance in site development, water efficiency, energy efficiency, materials selection, and indoor environmental quality.
McGraw-Hill Construction is a U.S.-based company that does market research in the construction industry. Their Green Outlook 2009: Trends Driving Change report found that the decrease in operating costs is the most significant benefit of green building for building owners, followed by the increase in building values.
Operating costs in green buildings are 13.6 per cent lower, and building values are 10.9 per cent higher than for their nongreen counterparts.
The reduced operating costs are a result of improved energy efficiency, better waste management, and less water use. And not only do building values increase, but also do occupancy rates and rental income.
If you need more reasons to go green, consider that governments are legislating green measures, and rewarding them with tax incentives or zoning allowances.
With their focus on indoor air quality, LEED certified buildings provide a healthier environment for employees, who will therefore be more productive.
"More and more customers want products like low-emitting furniture and green cleaning solutions, so we provide lots of options and lots of good advice," said Sandra Vyse, furniture sales manager for Staples Advantage. "People sometimes question the initial investment if the green products cost a bit more upfront, but the long-term benefits to the environment and the bottom line make that investment worth it."
