Getting Green

One of the most respected contractors in our area is helping companies reduce their carbon footprint and reduce cost at the same time.
I thought you'd like to read how they are helping companies save in this area!

Most of us are aware that buildings and development provide many benefits to society, but they also have significant environmental impact.

According to the latest information from the EPA:

• Buildings account for 38.9% of our total energy consumption
• Buildings account for 72% of electric consumption
• Buildings contribute 38.9% of our total carbon dioxide emissions
• Building occupants use 13% of the total water consumed in the U.S.

Just think, if we compared our buildings to the automotive industry; what is the “miles per gallon” of your building?

The latest trend in our industry is “sustainability.” The current accepted definition is “development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.”

Those of us in the building industry are increasingly exposed and requested to design and build buildings that meet this requirement. Rising energy costs, social activism and yes, government regulation have coalesced to create opportunities for almost all of us to recognize and to act progressively to embrace this concept. Further, an increase in corporate responsibilities has led some companies to become leaders in the “Green Movement” and they advertise accordingly.

The challenge is how do we incorporate and create structures and use processes that are environmentally responsible and resource-efficient throughout the life-cycle of the building and do so cost effectively. As prudent business people we are always reminded of “Return on Investment.”

A great and simple way to create alternative energy source, whether for new buildings or existing buildings is simply energy conservation. It is the lowest cost of energy we have at hand. Since 1973 alone, improvements in energy efficiency have resulted in a 50% reduction in our daily energy use, which is the same as discovering an extra 25 million barrels of oil every single day. Clearly saving energy is like finding it.

Renier recently recommended and completed the installation of an energy efficient lighting system for Atrium’s 265,000 square foot office/warehouse facility. Co-founder David Hirsch was excited to learn that his company will save 30% on electric costs.

If you would like to speak to the good people at Renier, contact Mike Vasbinder at

mvasbinder@renier.com
Enjoy your summer!