Frequently Asked Green Questions

What is building green?
Green building is the practice of increasing the efficiency with which buildings use resources — energy, water, and materials — while reducing the impact on human health and the environment during the building's lifecycle. This efficiency is accomplished through better sitting, design, construction, operation and maintenance. Green buildings are designed to reduce the overall impact of the built environment on human health and the natural environment by:

•    Efficiently using energy, water, and raw materials
•    Protecting occupant health and improving                        employee productivity
•    Reducing waste, pollution and environmental impact

Why should I build green?

U.S. Green Building Council research shows that in the United States alone, buildings account for:

• 72% of electricity consumption,
• 39% of energy use,
• 38% of all CO2 (carbon dioxide) emissions,
• 40% of raw materials use,
• 30% of waste output (136 million tons annually), and
• 14% of potable water use

(USGBC statistics)

Green construction helps to sustain natural resources by using them more efficiently. Many municipalities are requiring buildings to meet certain environmental benchmarks. And, contrary to popular belief, green construction is often less expensive in the long run than traditional construction techniques. Green Peak Group will help you recapture all applicable federal, state and local rebates, and can even help you arrange financing, showing you how building green can actually be cash-positive, in real, tangible financial terms.

Green buildings consume less energy and fewer resources in comparison to the average commercial building:

• Green buildings consume 26% less energy
• Green buildings have 13% lower maintenance costs
• Green buildings have 27% higher occupant satisfaction
• Green buildings have 33% less greenhouse gas emissions

(USGBC statistics)

How can I build my new/existing site green? 

We implement a comprehensive, three-step process that can, if you wish, take you from the beginning of your project through its completion.

First, we walk through your existing site and take detailed notes about where you can institute “green practices.” Then we create a written report with our recommendations. These may include a more efficient HVAC system, the use of solar energy, capturing, filtering and reusing rainwater, installing carpet that doesn’t emit harmful gases, even “green” office furniture. Finally, we can recommend specialists in their respective fields that can implement our overall plan for your building. Since we represent a group of Elite Service Providers, we can coordinate and manage the entire operation, from start to finish.