I often wonder why so many people are so uninterested in the green building movement. But over time I’ve come to the conclusion that, if everyone really understood the wide range of effects and consequences of ignoring the importance of the green movement, they would be more inclined to accept the responsibility of doing their part.

What we need to realize is this- We are destroying our planet-

Not that we’re doing it intentionally but traditional existence has allowed us to take so much for granted. Contrary to what many of us may think-

• We do not have an unlimited supply of water.
• There really is such a thing as global warming.
• We are destroying the ozone with the use of fossil fuels for our energy and transportation needs.
• And yes, believe it or not, we are fighting wars and sacrificing tens of thousands of lives in the middle east because of our dependence on foreign oil.

As it has been said “In the past wars have been fought over oil. In the future wars will be fought over water”
More than 2 billion people on earth do not have a safe supply of water.
Americans consume more than 5 times the amount of water than our European neighbors. There are simple measures we can all take to reduce our water consumption.Things like installing water efficient plumbing fixtures like EPA water sense toilets and urinals, and water saving faucets and shower heads.Some municipalities offer rebates which offset the cost of the toilets. Or using native or adaptive plants in our landscapes and implementing measures to reduce the use of potable water for landscape irrigation.
The single most important thing we can do in this country is to reduce our dependence on foreign oil. We need to increase our supply of domestic alternative energy sources. Not only would this reduce the cost of energy but we would also create more jobs, and reduce damaging carbon emissions created by the use of fossil fuels.
Another overlooked amenity of green building is the reduction of indoor air pollutants thereby creating a much healthier indoor living and working environment.
These are just a few of the benefits of Green Building Awareness. You owe it to yourself, your planet, and future generations to do your part in leaving behind a healthier and safer environment.