by Franklyn Cater – Listen All things Considered
While much of the U.S. real estate market has been floundering, one area has not seen a dip. Green building now accounts for nearly one-third of new construction in the U.S. That’s up from 2 percent in 2005, according to McGraw-Hill Construction, which tracks the industry. The numbers suggest a revolution is taking place within an industry that is historically slow to change. There are many factors — and many players — in this move toward green building. But one company and its rating system have been undeniably influential in changing construction practice and policy around the country, despite some people’s reservations about whether it’s really helping the environment. University Of Michigan Banks On LEED. The new Ross School of business building at the University of Michigan is full of environmentally friendly technology.
Andy Hoffman, a professor of sustainable enterprise, who teaches a course in green construction, and facilities manager John Bresette gave a tour of the facilities. Oddly enough, among the highlights is a men’s room equipped with dual-flush toilets. Read on