The built environment has a profound impact on our natural environment, economy, health, and productivity.
In the United States alone, buildings account for:
• 72% of electricity consumption,
• 39% of energy use,
• 38% of all carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions,
• 40% of raw materials use,
• 30% of waste output (136 million tons annually), and
• 14% of potable water consumption.
More statistics on the built environment in the U.S. and the growing size of USGBC membership and LEED are available in our Green Building Facts document.
Benefits of Green Building
Environmental benefits:
- Enhance and protect ecosystems and biodiversity
- Improve air and water quality
- Reduce solid waste
- Conserve natural resources
Economic benefits:
- Reduce operating costs
- Enhance asset value and profits
- Improve employee productivity and satisfaction
- Optimize life-cycle economic performance
Health and community benefits:
- Improve air, thermal, and acoustic environments
- Enhance occupant comfort and health
- Minimize strain on local infrastructure
- Contribute to overall quality of life
- Research Publications
- View highlighted research on the costs, benefits and attributes of green building that are transforming the market.
- LEED Project Case Studies
- Search USGBC's Directory of LEED Projects and Case Studies.
- Green Building Links
- Links to resources collected by USGBC staff and members to facilitate green building research.
- Green Building Research Fund
- This grant program was created to spur green building research that will advance sustainable building practices and encourage market transformation.