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Energy efficiency is the most powerful tool to combat greenhouse gases (GHG) and the most cost-effective strategy to lighten your energy footprint. Building Data from the US Energy Information Administration illustrates that buildings are responsible for almost half (48%) of all energy consumption and 30% of all GHG emissions annually. Energy-efficient upgrades can decrease energy use by 30% to 70%, while improving the indoor environment. Come learn how….
We spend approximately 90% of our time indoors. Studies have shown that in many buildings indoor levels of pollutants are two to five times higher than they should be for a healthy living environment. Both short- and long-term illnesses, such as asthma have been linked to poor indoor air quality.
Environmentally and economically, it pays to focus on improving the comfort, health, safety, and durability of the buildings—homes and working places—where we spend our time. Studies have shown that increasing comfort of buildings can increase productivity from 10 to 20%.
Economically
It makes only “cents” to invest if there’s a return on your investment. That is why President Obama has called energy efficiency “the cheapest, cleanest, fastest energy source.” The Obama administration has outlined plans to reduce energy use in federal government buildings by 25% within five years and by 40% in new federal buildings over the next five years. With current incentives and the president’s “New Energy for America” plan, there are lots of rebates and incentives available that make energy efficient upgrades low-cost to no-cost investments. It is time to think long term for the planet and our pocketbooks. Research has shown that for every $1 reduced in annual fuel bills, home values increase by $10 to $25.
Indoor Environmental Quality
Healthy and more comfortable building occupants are significantly more satisfied and productive in their indoor environment. Physical comfort is a crucial component in providing an effective living and working environment. Rather than focusing on a single component, Building Efficiency looks at the building as a whole system working together to improve the indoor environment .
If a building is constantly too hot, too cold, drafty, lacks adequate air, is too light, too dark, there is a decrease in overall satisfaction and productivity. Studies have shown that when you provide effective and efficient building design, giving occupants optimal thermal comfort, quality visual light, good acoustics, and optimal indoor air quality, they will increase well-being and productivity.
Indoor air pollution, building-related illness, and "sick building syndrome" have been scientifically verified. Research recently done by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) states that on average indoor air quality is 2 to 5 times worse than outdoor air quality. Pollutants may cause short- to long-term health problems, including asthma, respiratory tract infections, cancer, allergic reactions, headaches, congestion, skin or eye irritation, fatigue, nausea, and sneezing. Given the fact that people spend 90 percent of their time indoors, the health risk due to indoor air pollutants is a significant public health concern. Indoor air quality problems can result in liability issues or lawsuits. The Federal Safety Commission states that “Carbon Monoxide is the number one cause of death by poisoning in the United States.”
Environment
There is consensus in the scientific community that global warming is a fact and is directly caused by anthropogenic greenhouse gases. The biggest source of greenhouse gases is from the burning of fossil fuels. Since buildings are the largest energy consumers, they have the potential to have a significant impact on reducing global warming.
Residential and commercial buildings can increase their energy efficiency on average between 30% and 70%. In the past, buildings were built with a low-bid mentality and builders took the fastest path to constructing buildings. This has left our buildings with low energy efficiency, with lots of room for improvement in all aspects of residential and commercial buildings.
Durability
Buildings on average are the greatest investment anyone will make. They are costly if not well maintained. If structural, moisture, or malfunctioning equipment problems are not addressed, it will lead to more expensive problems in the future. With proper improvements and consistent maintenance, buildings will run more efficiently, saving thousands to millions of dollars over the buildings’ lifetime.
Often, we do not notice accumulative problems until it’s too late. A leaky pipe may be causing moisture rot to your framed walls, ceilings, or floors, racking up a huge water bill. On the other hand, a durable, well-maintained building will last years, providing occupants a comfortable, healthy home and work environment.
Buiding Efficiency is endorsed by:
Buiding Efficiency is endorsed by:
Buiding Efficiency is endorsed by: