Buildings within the US account for $200 billion worth of electricity and natural gas usage each year. There is now, more than ever an increasing need to become efficient in the operations of our buildings. If the energy efficiency of U.S. buildings were improved by 10 percent, Americans would save about $20 billion and reduce greenhouse gases equal to the emissions from about 30 million vehicles. With the growing demands of environmentally conscious consumers businesses need to consider how their operations and services will meet these staggering demands.

The energy used by commercial and industrial buildings in the U.S. is responsible for nearly 50 percent of our national emissions of greenhouse gases.

“Because buildings contribute nearly 40% of global warming emissions and consume over 70% of electricity use in the United States, increasing energy efficiency of our homes and businesses is an urgent clean energy solution to global warming and rebuilding our economy”

(Glen Brand, Sierra Club's Cool Cities Program director, SIERRA CLUB & U.S.GREEN BUILDING COUNCIL LAUNCH 'GREEN BUILDING FOR COOL CITIES' PROJECT http://www.ewire.com/display.cfm/Wire_ID/5360)

It makes financial sense too. Offices spend the most out of any commercial sector in terms of energy usage, presenting ample opportunities to increase efficiency while reducing expenses.

Another added benefit? Offices are often able to command higher rents, or in economic downturns, maintain rent levels because tenants receive lower operational expenses to comparable properties. Coupled with higher resale values and occupancy rates, a green office building is not just about saving the world.