GREEN BUILDING
The following information was taken from iLevel®. For more information on iLevel® visit: iLevel
UNDERSTANDING A FEW BASIC TERMS
ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT SYSTEM (EMS)
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) defines EMS as “a set of processes and practices that enable an organization to reduce its environmental impacts and increases its operating efficiency.” This includes specific goals for conserving resources, improving energy efficiency, and reliable processes to accomplish those goals. The best known, third-party audited EMS is ISO 14001, defined by the International Organization for Standardization.
GREEN HOME
While there is no commonly accepted definition, a green home is one that minimizes human impacts on the human and natural environment. This can include actions to boost energy efficiency, reduce construction waste, improve indoor air quality, and use water more wisely, among other considerations.
BUILDING ENVELOPE
A home’s outer shell, including the foundation, structural framing, siding, insulation, windows and doors. Paying close attention to the materials used, and how they are installed, is critical for home’s long-term durability.
ENERGY EFFICIENCY
Green building rating programs typically include energy efficiency as a primary category for earning points. Potential actions include proper HVAC equipment sizing, improved insulation, and installing Energy Star-rated appliances.
SUSTAINABLE BUILDING
Often used interchangeably with “green building,” sustainable means meeting the needs of the present while reducing negative impacts to the future generations. Sustainable building addresses environmental, economic, and social goals.
CARBON FOOTPRINT
The total carbon dioxide (CO2) associated with a product or service. This includes all CO2 emissions from manufacturing, transportation, heating and cooling, etc., as well as emissions resulting from products and services purchased from others. Products that store carbon during their useful life, such as wood, can deduct the long-term carbon storage from the total carbon footprint.
EMBODIED ENERGY
The total lifetime energy required for a given building material. This takes into account energy for raw material extraction or harvesting, manufacturing, transportation, installation, maintenance and disposal.
LIFE CYCLE ANALYSIS (LCA)
Also known as life cycle assessment, or cradle-to-grave analysis. An LCA evaluates all environmental impacts from a product or service throughout its life. For green building, the goal is to reduce a home’s total lifetime impact on people and nature.
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Other Green Building Sections:
Green Building Practices
Efficiency, Quality, & Durability
Green Designing & Building
Standard Specs & Materials
