The office of the Federal Environmental Executive defines a green building as "the practice of 1) increasing the efficiency with which buildings and their sites use energy, water, and materials, and 2) reducing building impacts on human health and the environment, through better siting, design, construction, operation, maintenance, and removal-the complete building life cycle." Buildings are responsible for almost one-half of all greenhouse gas emissions today.
Sustainable properties are the future of the real estate industry. Consumer demand and government policy are making this happen. Many consumers, real estate professionals, and property owners are taking steps towards greening their properties.
Commercial Demand
Government incentives and policies are increasing the number of green commercial buildings and retrofits as well. Nearly 25% of all new construction projects in the U.S. are LEED-registered. Additionally, the number of states with green building policies, standards, legislation, and programs increased from 13 to 31 between 2005 and 2008
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