Learn Green Design

Policy and Context
Government policy, non-governmental programs, certification systems, social context, and trends all play a role in green design.

Process
The building process—including integrated design, education, finances, and construction all contribute to green building.

Land Use and Community
Buildings are part of a larger picture of land use, infrastructure, community integration, urban development, and property selection.

Site and Water
Low-flow plumbing fixtures, rainwater collection and storage, and drought-tolerant landscapes help to conserve water.

Energy
Energy-efficient lighting, appliances, and heating and cooling systems contribute to environmental goals, as well as an efficient building envelope and renewable energy generation.

Resources and Materials
Choosing building materials means balancing impacts from manufacturing with transportation and end-of-life considerations, as well as durability and performance.

Indoor Environmental Quality
Providing comfort indoors means ensuring appropriate ventilation, heating, and cooling, as well as limiting emissions from materials used inside a building.