Commercial and residential buildings use one-third of the energy consumed in the United States, and two-thirds of all electricity. Buildings produce roughly a third of carbon dioxide emissions and other emissions that harm air quality and contribute to global warming. Additionally, buildings generate waste during construction and operation; can have poor indoor air quality, affecting worker health; and often don't consider the impact made on the community through increased transportation, sprawl, and cultural and historical impact. Green buildings address a wide range of topics, including:

• water conservation
  
• waste management
  
• renewable energy sources
  
• nontoxic materials
  
• recycled/reused materials
  
• energy efficiency
  
• reduced environmental impact on the building site
  
• wise use of space/reduced building size
  
• balance of environmental and economic considerations
  
• consideration for cultural and historical factors of the site
  
• proximity to transportation

• Designers and architects are finding a growing market for green design and construction, and are quickly gaining expertise in the area.             
  
• Builders are becoming increasingly familiar with green building issues, as clients seek projects using more environmentally responsible materials, more efficient fixtures and appliances, and more healthful finishes and furnishings, and are requesting that builders conduct on-site recycling of construction and demolition debris.
  
• Retailers and manufacturers of energy-efficient and environmental products are developing and selling products that are easier on the environment and building occupants than conventional products.
  
• Building owners and their tenants or occupants are seeking living and working spaces that are less environmentally damaging, cheaper to maintain and operate, and less harmful to human health.
  
• Federal, state, and local governments increasingly are embracing green-building principles and practices, and some are developing policies mandating that new or renovated buildings they own or operate be constructed according to green-building minimum standards.