Much can be-- and is said -- about global warming, peak oil, and sustainability these days. It is clearly one of the most commonly discussed topics amongst people who care for their world, now and into the future.
How humans inhabit this planet is inextricable from that topic. What we consume and what we leave behind as by-products of that consumption have a direct – even mathematical impact – on the health and life of the planet we share.
But inhabit it we will. And this must include all of the aspects of the life of this very social and intelligent (at times) species.
Green Building, at its best, is an attempt to recognize the needs and health of the planet and its direct link to the health of the species, of all species of life, when we make decisions about how we make places for ourselves.
Green Building is fundamentally about having a light touch, a respectful touch in how we build, in how we inhabit the landscape.
…And in so doing, we all can live a healthier life in the process.
People will continue to need places to live and congregate – to work, recreate and contemplate. Building will continue to be a part of that. This is a good thing, particularly if done respectfully.
Green Building does not necessarily mean ‘more expensive’. With careful planning, with clear intention from the start of the process, and particularly with life-cycle costs considered, building using long-term sustainable practices are no more costly than a less considered approach. The key is setting intentions from the start, and being comprehensive in the planning and considerations of the project. |
