The resource takes a holistic perspective. It recommends that buildings be designed and constructed as integrated systems. The holistic approach can be the most effective path toward constructing buildings that are high-value economic and environmental assets. For convenience, the resource is organized by topic. It is important, however, to avoid considering the topics in isolation from other topics.
Buildings are whole systems with elements that interact.
Choices made for one building element may have significant effects on other elements. For example, building material choices may affect energy efficiency. Consequently, it is essential to keep that whole systems perspective in mind when looking at each of the topical areas in this resource. Some resources will be of special interest to certain building professionals. Others focus on types of building projects, or specific geographic areas.