NEWS ARTICLE
October 14, 2008
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The primary barrier to using green building techniques is the added cost of green construction – or, in many cases, more accurately – the perceived added cost of green construction. However, with 39% of the Nation’s total energy consumption and 12% of its potable water consumption devoted to buildings, it is important to fully understand the long term costs and benefits of green construction before deciding whether to “go green”.
The consideration of additional costs for green construction, compared to savings over the life of the building, is critical for those that own and operate buildings – such as municipalities. Increases in cost may occur due to the following:
* The extent of green construction techniques employed;
* When green construction goals and techniques are integrated in the building design; and
* The construction team’s experience with green construction.
Despite initial costs, buildings that integrate sustainable practices will result in long-term cost savings derived from reductions in energy and water consumption, as well as, waste generation. Municipalities that undertake an analysis that weigh the up-front costs of green construction against the operational cost savings over the life of a building may realize overall building cost reductions over traditional construction techniques.
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