Engineers and contractors can make a difference in how these controversies play out. Can Mean Greenbacks in the Pocket T his time of year there is much green in bloom on both East and West coasts. And it isn't just trees, lawns and gardens. The emphasis is on high-performing buildings, and the prediction is that operating costs can be slashed substantially. First off, the alliance will develop and conduct an environmental education track for CSI members.
Voluntary compliance is a smart approach, especially politically.
Although few would dispute that green buildings are kinder and gentler on the environment and will save energy and money in the long run, many are overwhelmed by the prospect of making the structural and procedural adjustments to produce high-performance buildings. The guidelines should make it easier for them. The manual is intended primarily for use on public projects but it is applicable to the private sector and could be invaluable to communities faced with the prospect of evaluating development proposals and their potential impacts. Austin, Seattle, Portland, Ore., and other cities either already have or are developing similar manuals, thanks to the efforts of those that tirelessly push environmental responsibility.