As time is moving on and changing, more and more of us are realizing the impact we have on the big blue that we all call mother earth. This is why green buildings are slowly but surely gaining traction in the construction world, and I for once am all for this type of ecological and sustainable building. With the advent of the internet, we are able to get our news within seconds, and by the click of a button, this is why we are slowly realizing that how we are currently treating our home is not sustainable and that green building might be our only saving grace and the home of the future. So, without further ado, let’s get into the thick of it and learn more about green buildings!
What are green buildings?
This concept might seem foreign to you because it is only starting to crop up, but it is the future of the construction industry. Now, before you tell me a lame joke, let me stop you there; no, it is not the simple act of painting a building green. It is defined:
“a building that, in its design, construction, or operation reduces or eliminates negative impact and can create positive impacts on our climate and natural environment. They preserve precious natural resources and improve our quality of life.”
Inlay terms, they are buildings that are environmentally conscious and friendly, and compared to traditional buildings, they are better for the environment. They are energy-efficient and sustainable buildings (that is, they produce their own energy with renewable energy), resource-efficient and use eco-friendly material for their construction.
Why should you go green?
Well, it is the best thing to do for the planet, but it is also very beneficial for you as it will provide you with a more comfortable way of living and save up on your energy bills. It is also a great way to reduce your carbon footprint, and it is a baby step towards going for a more sustainable way of building and seeing the world. It might be a small step for us, but it is a giant step for humanity and mother Earth. Green buildings are designed to reduce our overall impact on the environment by reducing trash and pollution, using efficient and renewable energy, and by improving the occupant overall life and health,
Do green buildings cost more than traditional buildings?
The first critic you’ll hear when you start talking about green buildings is that they are expensive and not that affordable; in all actualities, this is a big misconception. Granted, the cost of building such a building might run on the more expensive side because green products and materials are costly, but you should see the bigger picture and how much you’ll save when it comes to your energy bill. According to research, you will save 25% to 50% on your energy bill if you live in a green building. When it comes to green buildings, you should also look at them as an investment because they will more than make up their cost in the long run. You are not only investing for yourself but the environment as well. If you ask me, it is a win-win situation for everybody.
Goals of green buildings
Well, the main goal is to create a better future for the next generations and give them a head start because those before us have done a terrible job at protecting the planet. For me, the motto of green buildings should be, invest in the change you want to see in the world, and that, my friends, is sustainability! By choosing green buildings, you are using your voice and money to show those in power that you can contribute to capitalism by being environmentally friendly. Even the most minor change can help in this case, and following the COP-26, we know that we need to start getting our act together f we want to have a chance to save the planet and reverse all the things we did to it. Your voice might seem insignificant, but one small change can make a tremendous difference in the grand scheme of things!
Sound off in the comments section below and tell us your thoughts on green buildings.