The residential construction industry uses vast quantities of this nation's resources and has an obligation to be mindful of its impact by constructing homes by using fewer resources. By selecting a "green" future we will choose to build homes that have a reduced impact on the environment and influence the direction of developing technologies and material.
On a per capita basis, Canada is the largest consumer of energy in the world
and the second largest producer of greenhouse gases. We use as much energy as
the entire continent of Africa and contribute 2% to overall global emissions.
Depletion of non renewable resources and increasing energy costs
Next to the mortgage, home energy bills are the largest ongoing expense associated with home ownership. A Built Green™ home will provide energy savings for the life of the home, creating an economic incentive for the buyer to purchase a certified Built Green™ home. Choosing a "green" future also means that there will be resources left for future generations.
We all want a "healthier home"
Average Canadians spend 90% of their time indoors and that "new home smell" is actually the odor of chemicals that are not healthy. The Built Green™ Program provides the "green" tools to build homes that speak to this concern, giving buyers a choice in the market place and builders a way to distinguish their product.
The rate of asthma among Canadian children has increased four-fold
over the last 20 years and about 12% of all Canadian children now have asthma.
Asthma accounts for about one-quarter of all school absences.
The Built Green™ program is flexible and affordable
The Built Green™ Bronze, Silver, Gold and Platinum achievement levels present an opportunity for a builder to offer the consumer flexibility in a variety of price ranges. The homebuyer will know that their Built Green™ home represents their commitment to the environment, future generations and improving the way we live. The Built Green™ program allows everyone to choose a "green" future. The range of choices allows the consumer to choose based on a combination of financial, health and environmental concerns.
Because it's an opportunity
Built GreenCanada has recognized an opportunity to represent the home building industry through a voluntary program that benefits the homebuyer, the community and the environment.
The Built Green™ program promotes value and competitive advantage through an improved quality product (design and construction) with environmental options and improved resource efficiency. Many builders already embrace and practice these initiatives. Built Green™ gives formal recognition and provides verifiable benchmarks the consumer can identify.