It's impossible to deny that development is extremely costly. Often new sustainable technologies might be over looked due to the high upfront costs. Additionally, there is a vulnerability associated with trying something new. But these hesitations should not inhibit the viability of installing progressive green technologies. And the only way for these technologies to become mainstream is to implement them on more and more projects.
The necessity of changing the industry standards toward sustainable building is not lost on the government. There are multiple routes to achieve funding for green technologies on both the state and federal level. Whether you are building is in New York or Nebraska, there is funding available to alleviate the first costs of many renewable technologies. Although obtaining these incentives may require some extra work in the beginning phases of the project, the rewards for the building will certainly be worth it.
So before you decide to go with a business as usual approach to designing your building, remember that there are resources available to you which give you the opportunity to not only help your building become more sustainable, but also lend a hand in redefining the industry to become more environmentally accountable for the future.
Zoe Reich is director of sustainability at Edwards & Zuck, P.C., New York, N.Y.
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