Your Customer Expects Green
While I was at GreenBuild, I became motivated to think about reasons to build green despite the slumping economy. While Green Building Law Update has been critical of some green building trends and focused on the potential risks associated with this type of construction, there are many reasons to undertake green building projects now.
Green Building Law Update decided to compile the top five reasons to build green despite the current recession. Lets look back at some of the reasons we have reviewed:
- Improved financing opportunities
- Build to the state of art
- Distinguish your project from traditional construction
The next reason to build green is blunt – because your customers are demanding green projects! Don’t believe me? Do you believe 400 commercial real estate executives?
Commercial real estate executives are increasingly seeking greener office space -- and are less inclined to pay premiums for it, according to a recent survey by CoreNet Global and Jones Lang LaSalle.
"They are less willing to pay a premium for sustainable space because they understand that is doesn't cost the owner more to make that space efficient," said JLL Senior Vice President Michael Jordan.
The study found that 69 percent of real estate executives embrace sustainability, up from 47 percent in 2007.
If Michael Jordan supports green building, shouldn’t you?
Related Links:
- Cost-Savvy Execs Expect Greener Buildings Without Big Price Tags (GreenerBuildings)
- Distinguish Your Existing Green Building (GBLU)
- Need Green? Build Green? (GBLU)
- The State of Green Building (GBLU)
I could not agree more. Money motivates, the greening of teh economy will follow.
I would expect it from any new build.
If I were buying a new house I would want it to have sustainability already built in. But I know I would be paying premium for it.
Robert
Thanks for the comments!
Chris - money motivates, whether it's in the form of anticipated profits from a green project or government incentives to build green. I think we will see both in 2009!
Robert - Residential homes are potentially a huge market for the green industry. The key is driving down the cost premiums so everyone can afford a green home.
All great points! I think as you see more individuals gaining experience in the commercial sector and learning how to apply technology you will see those experiences translate to the residential market. Just think of technologies like tankless water heaters which were originally designed for commercial applications and how they are now implemented into green projects.