How to Be a Green Contractor
The construction industry has long contributed construction debris to landfills, but a new trend in building has changed that. The new trend is green building, a practice of recycling, reusing and renovating. It's also sometimes called sustainable building. A green contractor is in much more demand as the public pays attention to improving the environment.
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Instructions
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Recognize that the industry defines green building as a building that uses less energy, carbon and water. A contractor must look at producing 50 to 90 percent less waste. A green building is a healthier building too. For example, high-performance lighting can increase productivity by up to 6.7 percent.
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Take time to learn new construction methods. Think of it as an investment in your business and the environment. The U.S. Green Building Council has a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) rating system to certify projects and contractors as "green" (see Resources below).
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Work with architects and designers as part of an integrated team. As a green contractor, you're in a good position to contribute to the design of a building with your construction knowledge. Plan construction projects ahead of time in order to implement sustainable building strategies. Consider erosion control and waste management.
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Use earth-friendly products that contribute to less wasteful and more energy efficient building. A green contractor needs to stay up-to-date with products and materials on the market, and this is a market on the rise. Ask yourself whether green materials and products meet your construction goals. Also, look at the applicability, ease of construction and cost impacts in choosing green materials for building.
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Prepare to spend more up front, but understand that over the long run, a building's costs will be much lower with green building practices. According to the EPA, a 30 percent reduction in energy use in a commercial building results in an increase in its overall value.
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Realize that in addition to consumers driving the need for sustainable building practices, so is the government. The National Institute of Building Sciences (NIBS) provides the Department of Energy with information on how to have a "high performance" building. The Pharos Project evaluates materials for environmental friendliness for LEED.
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Change the way you do business. Adopt green practices that focus on sustainability. Train employees in this concept, and only use subcontractors who work the same way. The industry provides seminars about new practices. Stay up-to-date.
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Tips & Warnings
Make certain that green materials and practices meet local codes.
Beware of marketing yourself as a green contractor in name only. Known as "greenwashing," this practice is frowned on by consumers and other contractors. Let your actions speak for your reputation as a green contractor.
