Green Buildings - The answer to a healthier life.

The overall condition of health in society has never been so poor as the present. People continue to rely on an increasing dosages of prescription medication and health aids. Typically when most people think of health issues in society they think of average adults, but issues with children are in a state of disrepair as well. Conditions such as asthma now affect 1 in 20 people and rising, and now more then 18% of children are overweight. Some blame television, other blame the parents. Personally, I can't help but think of the impact that a persons everyday indoor environment has on an individuals health.

North Americans spend more more then 90% of their time indoors, so if an indoor environment is unhealthy it makes sense that anyone inside will be adversely affected. It is exciting then that so many buildings are entering the market that are considered 'green'. The benefits of green buildings are huge for all stakeholders affected by a new development. Developers realized long-term savings and increased marketability. Consumers realize healthier living conditions with more light, higher air quality, and reduced energy bills. Communities are presented with new business opportunities, greater access to green space, and lower waste buildings. Studies have also shown that society at large benefits from reduced sick days, greater productivity, increased retention rates, reduced stress on health care systems, and many other valuable intangibles.

These benefits have been proven by a great mound of research, and green buildings are now recognized as an available alternative. The necessary step now is to create market awareness so that consumers realize that green certified buildings such as LEED exist. It always seems to come down to personal education, and this is no exception. This education may come from developers, real estate agents, or governments. In the end, consumers need to learn about the benefits that green buildings can provide and support sustainable developments. Without strong consumer demand, the building industry won't be in a rush to take new risks and try something new.

Green buildings make sense, and the technology exists now to make them equally priced on the market to traditional alternatives. Home owners save money, increase their health, and help save the environment by reducing their footprint. People always ask me how they can make a difference in their day to day actions without sacrificing their standard of living. This seems like a great solution.