Sustainable Building Technical Manual - Etn-presco.net

PART VIIIssues and TrendsIntroductionWhile progress is being made in achieving sustainability, even greater levels of energyand environmental efficiency, durability, and renewability are possible as green buildingpractices continue to move forward. The benefits of economic savings andincreased occupant productivity provide additional incentives to continue research anddevelopment in this field. As more public and private entities invest in sustainablepractices, even greater opportunities for savings and optimal use of limited resourceswill emerge.Sustainable building practices are being adopted by an increasing number of buildingowners, both public and private, for both new construction and renovations. At thelocal government level, green building initiatives, including the adoption of public policyand practices, are expanding each year in cities and counties across the UnitedStates. Many of these green building initiatives serve as models for future residentialand commercial green programs. In the private sector, building owners and operatorsfrom major corporations to small businesses, along with product manufacturers, constructioncompanies, and financiers, are discovering the economic and environmentalbenefits of green buildings.The final chapters of the manual address issues that affect the adoption and success ofgreen building practices. Chapter 24, “Local Government Financing,” describes greenbuilding financing and cost issues for local governments. Chapter 25, “The Future ofGreen Buildings,” discusses developing green building trends and standards, as well asupcoming issues for consideration by building developers, owners, and managers.