What does green mean? Green construction means that a building uses less energy, conserves renewable resources and contains fewer toxic materials. What this means for construction cost is a higher initial cost with long term energy savings over the life of the building. This is one of the reasons many are turning to green construction. Energy savings, the environment and health are ranking higher in priority with home builders than the initial expense. Because green is now in, green homes now have a built-in selling point and much higher resale values are just another reason to 'go green'.4 Consumers can find fixtures that conserve water, energy-efficient appliances and construction design to save energy and reduce waste.

But can going green include flooring? Linoleum, if made of natural material, can be used as green flooring along with renewable and recycled resources such as bamboo, rubber and recycled fiber carpets. Going green doesnt end there. It can even include the paint on the walls -- not necessarily the color, but the type of paint. Paint, stains and glues once dry, continue to release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) for years. To prevent headaches and nausea, heightened asthma and allergies, ?low VOC? paint, natural stains and formaldehyde-free glue are used and help make a house green. To go green from top to bottom includes a green roof. These are specialized structures that include soil & plants to absorb storm water and prevent runoff. the city of Milwaukee is going green to keep Lake Michigan's water fresh. To prevent storm water runoff from collecting in the sewers, rivers and lakes, green roofs and even green streets are being developed and encouraged. Milwaukee continues to lead by example with its use of green roofs and green designs on city buildings.5 Reasons for going green can be as varied as the construction projects themselves. The owner, designer and contractors should work together to achieve specifically outlined goals for themselves and as a group.