Fostering the growth and global competitiveness of U.S. businesses that are minority-owned.
Go Green, Get Rich
If you've read the news lately, you know the scale of the problem. Catastrophes that once seemed far away are creeping uncomfortably close to our lifetimes. Consider that business - until now part of the problem - is scrambling for answers. Clean-technology investments soared by more than 50 percent in the first three quarters of 2006.
The most significant problems facing the human race go beyond climate change. There are the pollution troubles: mountains of trash, haze-choked skies, and dirty water. Disease includes not just viral epidemics but also new strains of ultraresistant bacteria. And our global food problem isn't just about Third World famine; it's also about conditions that could wipe out the $158 billion fishing industry.However, companies are working towards developing workable, scalable solutions for the main problems. Read More...
In the United States alone, buildings account for:
- 65% of electricity consumption,
- 36% of energy use,
- 30% of greenhouse gas emissions,
- 30% of raw materials use,
- 30% of waste output (136 million tons annually), and
- 12% of potable water consumption.
Benefits of Green Building
Environmental benefits:
- Enhance and protect ecosystems and biodiversity
- Improve air and water quality
- Reduce solid waste
- Conserve natural resources
Economic benefits:
- Reduce operating costs
- Enhance asset value and profits
- Improve employee productivity and satisfaction
- Optimize life-cycle economic performance
Health and community benefits:
- Improve air, thermal, and acoustic environments
- Enhance occupant comfort and health
- Minimize strain on local infrastructure
- Contribute to overall quality of life