(NAPSA)—The term “green building” is one of the hottest phrases today, and it appears that it is here to stay. But just what is green building and how does it affect you? Green building is construction that is intended to provide environmental, health and economic benefits. More specifically, green building construction unites a variety of practices and techniques that include an energy-effi- Builders are taking steps to mini- cient design, the use of recycled and sustainable building materials and the protection and preservation of a construction site’s ber contractors that examine the these elements are essential when looking at the building’s entirelife policies on behalf of ABC’s nearly existing natural resources. All cycle, from design to operation and eventually decommission. Owners and developers are uti- lizing green building concepts to help reduce their operating and maintenance costs, minimize their environmental footprint and improve the health of their build- ings’ occupants. Additionally, a growing numberof state and local governments are requiring the use of green building techniques in new construction and rehabilita- tion building projects. Members’ of Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) long ago recognized the impor- tance and benefits of green building. Back in the 1980s, one of ABC’s member companies, Sigal Construction Corporation, was a green building pioneer and a founding member of the U.S. Council. Today, the group remains on the forefront of the green building movement, with its Green Build- ing Advisory Group consisting of a broad cross section of ABC mem- mize their environmental footprint and improve your health. latest advances in green construction technologies, applications and 25,000 members. “Although most green building planning and decisions are made by developers, owners and architects, ABC contractors are increasingly being called on to provide recommendations and practices on what green building materials, products and designs might be best for a particular project,” said Kirk Pickerel, ABC pres- ident and CEO. Members of the association continue to lead the commercial and industrial construction industry by utilizing green building construction methods and practices. ABC members under- stand that more thoughtful and environmentally responsible construction is an important step in ensuring that they leave a softer footprint on the landscape for future generations. To learn more about green building in the commercial and industrial construction industry, visit the ABC Web site www.abc.org/greenbuilding. at
