We’ve all heard the benefits of green buildings so often it gets kind of boring to mention them — good for the environment, good for occupants, good for the corporate image, good for the bottom line.
Yawn.
Well, here’s another advantage to consider: Green buildings may be good for your career.
Organizations of all types want to be green. And because buildings have an enormous impact on the environment, it’s logical that a green strategy take in buildings. Adding urgency to the move is evidence that conventional buildings will lose value as the market comes to expect buildings to be green.
It’s in your self-interest to take the initiative on green building efforts, rather than waiting for top management to tell you to get with it. I don’t mean that cynically. I firmly believe (and countless studies have shown) that green buildings are better for the environment and for occupants than conventional ones and that the investment is justified by lower life-cycle costs and more satisfied occupants.
I’m not suggesting you just stand on the sideline and cheer if anyone says “green.” Don’t stand by — take charge. After all, you have to live with whatever gets built, whether it’s green or not. That long-term perspective will be increasingly essential. With new construction, a building isn’t green unless it’s both durable and functional, and no one knows better than you and your staff how to achieve those goals. It’s also up to you and your staff to take on the unglamorous work needed to minimize the environmental footprint of existing buildings — to fight for upgrades and improve operating procedures.
And if you do well for yourself while doing a good job with green buildings, who will complain?
good point - love the title.