LEED Green Associate & BD+C AP, v4 Exam Prep by BuildSteel Bangladesh Ltd.

High-performing, green building practices are continuing their upward trend in the U.S. and around the world, as both the public and private sectors seek to establish themselves as leaders in real estate, asset management and sustainability. With benefits ranging from lowering environmental impact to reduced operating costs to improved human experience, building green and supporting a growing green economy transcends political divides and party labels.

Green building benefits include reduced greenhouse gas emissions associated with their construction and operation. Green buildings are also an important part of any city’s resiliency strategy by designing structures that feature climate adaptation and climate change mitigation strategies. They also generate impressive savings, are healthier for occupants and provide conditions for greater productivity.

The green renovation of the Edith Green–Wendell Wyatt Federal Building in Portland, Oregon, for example, has reduced water use by 65 percent and energy consumption by 55 percent, delivering millions of dollars in savings over time. And throughout the U.S. and around the globe, airport projects are using LEED and green building to ensure performance and reduce operational costs while they support economic development.

Clearly, green building is in a unique position as it combines the concerns of people who are both fiscally minded and environmentally conscious. The U.S. government should seize this opportunity not just to save money, or even to save the planet, but because it is an opportunity for all of us to LEED on!