Green Buildings & Businesses

What is a Green Building?

Green building is a whole-systems approach for designing and constructing buildings that conserve energy, water, and material resources. Green Buildings are healthier, safer, and more comfortable. A green building might include features such as:

  • Using sun and wind for natural heating, cooling, and lighting 
  • Landscaping with native plans and efficient water use
  • A quality, durable structure which incorporates salvaged, recycled, and/or sustainably harvested materials 
  • Appropriate insulation and ventilation 
  • Systems to maintain healthy indoor air quality
  • Energy efficient and water-saving appliances and fixtures
  • Diversion of construction waste 

Green Business Program 

The Green Business Program is a cooperative regional effort to assist small businesses with regulatory interpretation and compliance with federal, state, and local environmental regulations. Explore local Emeryville businesses with Green Business Certifications below.  

Get Involved and Learn More! 

Explore the links below to find out how green your home is compared to your neighbors', track energy and water consumption for public buildings, and learn about green building materials and technologies. 

Learn more about LEED certifications, California's Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen), the living building challenge, green roofs, and more. 

  

 

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