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Sidebar: Environmental Risks as Ranked by Scientists

Environmental Risks as Ranked by Scientists

In 1990, scientists in the Ecology and Welfare Subcommittee of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Science Advisory Board came up with this ranking of environmental issues, “despite gaps in the relevant data.” The order of the environmental issues within each heading is not meant to imply a ranking.

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ARTICLE CONTENTS Finding a basis for establishing priorities   Sidebar: Environmental Risks as Ranked by Scientists EBN’s Priority List for Sustainable Building   #1. Save Energy—Design and build energy-efficient buildings.   #2. Recycle Buildings—Utilize existing buildings and infrastructure instead of developing open space.   #3. Create Community—Design communities to reduce dependence on the automobile and to foster a sense of community.   #4. Reduce Material Use—Optimize design to make use of smaller spaces and utilize materials efficiently.   #5. Protect and Enhance the Site—Preserve or restore local ecosystems and biodiversity.   #6. Select Low-impact Materials—Specify low-environmental impact, resource-efficient materials.   #7. Maximize Longevity—Design for durability and adaptability   #8. Save Water—Design buildings and landscapes that are water-efficient.   #9. Make the Building Healthy—Provide a safe and comfortable indoor environment.   #10. Minimize C&D Waste—Return, reuse, and recycle job-site waste and practice environmentalism in your business.   #11. Green Up Your Business—Minimize the environmental impact of your own business practices, and spread the word   Final Thoughts