Green Economic Characteristics
Building green is not only good for the environment, but it also can significantly reduce overall building and operating costs.
Unfortunately, too many people equate “green” building with “green” dollar bills
– that is, building green means building expensively. Life-cycle costs, however, are lower, with payback frequently occurring within five years.”
- Urban Land Institute
– that is, building green means building expensively. Life-cycle costs, however, are lower, with payback frequently occurring within five years.”
- Urban Land Institute
Construction Costs are Often Lower
- Reduced site preparation and landscaping
- Lower waste disposal costs by 50-98%
Reduced Operating Costs
- Lower utility costs by 20-50%
- Reduced maintenance costs
Increased Valuation of Building
- Rule of thumb: divide reduction in annual operating costs by 10% to get increased value of the building
- Up to a 4% increase valuation for every $1 spent
More Productive Environment
- Better tenant and worker attraction/retention
- Decrease absenteeism by 45%
- Higher productivity up to 16%
Reduced Insurance and Risk of Liability
- Healthy occupants
- Lower environmental impacts
- Streamlined regulatory approvals
Higher Visibility and Marketability
