Green building is “the design, construction, and operation of homes according to resource-efficiency standards for energy, water, building design and materials, as well as indoor air quality standards.”
(NAHB Resource Directory)
(NAHB Resource Directory)
“Green building is an ‘applied common sense’ … that has its roots based in the wisdom of our forefathers. …thoughtful placement on the land, wise use of water, incorporating natural energy, and building healthy environments… ” This is much more than just adding energy efficient features to a home or building and requires a more integrated design approach to incorporate it into a larger ecosystem. (David Johnston, “Building Green in a Black and White World”)
Cohousing communities are models for sustainable living and community design. These small-scale neighborhoods generally abide by the principle of "using less" and "sharing more." Values include resource conservation, energy-efficiency, increased health of residents, and a cohesive social community.
Green building is a part of the broader vision of sustainability: designing and building homes and workplaces to be non-toxic, efficient, healthy and harmonious for the people using them and for the planet.