OVERVIEW
For years, the U.S. has taken water for granted. Low prices and a lack of regulation have led to massive waste, poor infrastructure, and the illusion that we have an endless supply.
But that mindset is changing. We’ve seen drought in the Southwest U.S., water rationing in California, dwindling aquifers, and contaminated water supplies. These problems are not going to be solved by drilling deeper wells.
Water-saving appliances, improved wastewater treatment, and higher performance goals can all mitigate the damage. Here you’ll find resources on products and strategies you need to achieve these goals.
IN-DEPTH
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Petal Certifications Help the Living Building Challenge Jump in Scale
August 2, 2017News Brief
With recent and upcoming certifications, the Living Building Challenge breaks out of its boutique building typology.
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What Makes Plumbing Green? BuildingGreen’s Guide to Plumbing Products
September 8, 2015Feature Article
People like a clean flush and a long shower, but water is getting scarcer. Selecting the right building products can meet both needs.
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Design Strategies for Occupant Engagement—and Why They Boost Performance
July 6, 2015Feature Article
Researchers reveal simple ways to empower occupants to reduce energy, water, and waste. It all starts with good design.
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Modular, Onsite Graywater System
July 10, 2017Product Review
Grayworks is a modular, plug-and-play commercial graywater treatment system that simplifies installation and maintenance.
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How to Succeed with the Living Building Challenge: 12 Teams Share Tips
January 4, 2015Feature Article
The bar is high—that’s obvious—but watch out for some surprising pitfalls. Here’s how dedicated teams have tackled Living Building challenges.
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Net-Zero Water and More: Moving Beyond “Low Flow”
May 5, 2014Feature Article
These emerging water strategies are finding momentum and filling the need to address efficiency and resilience on multiple scales.
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Innovative Products and Technology from the Greenbuild Expo
December 30, 2013Feature Article
Our product editors pick some winners from the expo floor at Greenbuild 2013 while raising questions about some materials.
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Waste Water, Want Water
January 28, 2013Feature Article
Options for small-scale, onsite wastewater treatment and reuse are improving-but can we solve a global crisis one building at a time?
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Commercial Kitchens: Cooking Up Green Opportunities
February 1, 2010Feature Article
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.
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Cost-Effective Green Retrofits: Opportunities for Savings in Existing Buildings
March 26, 2009Feature Article
Between lighting, water use, mechanical systems, the building envelope, and occupant health, existing buildings are rife with cost-effective retrofits and operational opportunities that also offer environmental benefits. Improvements range from the painfully obvious to the more complex and involved.
