The Problem with Net-Zero Buildings (and the Case for Net-Zero Neighborhoods)
It can be tough to make an individual building into a zero energy building, while working at the community scale can offer up opportunities for energy efficiency and cost-effective renewable energy generation.
Environmental Building News—August 1, 2010
Rethinking the All-Glass Building
Is it time to end our love affair with the all-glass building? A lot of proponents of high-performance, green design certainly think so—while other respected architects, including some leading green designers and energy experts, argue that all-glass can work well if done right.
Environmental Building News—July 1, 2010
Avoiding the Global Warming Impact of Insulation
Insulation is key to reducing carbon emissions from buildings. But the blowing agent in extruded polystyrene and spray polyurethane foam offsets much
of that benefit.
Environmental Building News—June 1, 2010
Integrated Design Meets the Real World
Proponents of integrated design say that it results in higher-performing buildings at lower costs than the conventional design process. But real world obstacles can derail or limit integration. We offer tips from experts to keep things on track.
Environmental Building News—May 1, 2010
Passive House Arrives in North America: Could It Revolutionize the Way We Build?
The Passive House standard, imported from Germany, sets a high bar for energy performance in buildings. But some see it as inflexible and inappropriate for some U.S. climates.
Environmental Building News—April 1, 2010
Chemistry for Designers: Understanding Hazards in Building Products
What's in our building materials? Are there chemicals we should be afraid of? Trying to get answers to these questions can be frustrating, but there are a number of good tools available.
Environmental Building News—March 1, 2010
Commercial Kitchens: Cooking Up Green Opportunities
Commercial kitchens run energy- and water-intensive equipment for long hours, sometimes even when not in use. While the challenges of saving water and energy in commercial kitchens are daunting, they're not insurmountable. Careful equipment selection and a commitment to conscientious kitchen practices can dramatically cut down on waste—and utility bills.
Environmental Building News—February 1, 2010
Cool Products From Greenbuild 2009: An Expo Floor Tour
Alex Wilson provides a tour of 37 innovative products from the U.S. Green Building Council's 2009 Greenbuild conference in Phoenix.
Environmental Building News—January 1, 2010
Will I Get Sued? Managing Risk in Green Building
Building industry professionals take on risks when they work on green buildings. But those risks aren’t insurmountable, and can easily be handled with good communication and solid contracts.
Environmental Building News—December 1, 2009
Making Your Own Electricity: Onsite Photovoltaic Systems
Although photovoltaic systems have a long payback period, generous incentives and tax credits can make the systems attractive for building owners interested in reducing their carbon footprint.
Environmental Building News—November 1, 2009
