While there are many different definitions of green building out there, it is generally accepted as the planning, design, construction, and operations of buildings with several central, foremost considerations: energy use, water use, indoor environmental quality, material section and the building's effects on its site.
Disaster and Climate Resilience
- LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) is the most widely used green building rating system. LEED certification provides a framework for healthy, highly efficient, and cost-saving green buildings.
- Enterprise Green Communities is a cost-effective, green building program that includes integrative design, site considerations, water, energy, healthy building, operations/maintenance and resident engagement.
- The Nevada QAP outlines additional elements for energy efficiency measures, or Smart Design elements, in its scoring rubric. Project walkability, installation of renewable energy sources, insulation and the use of energy efficient, Energy-star rated appliances.
- The Nevada Clean Energy Fund is another local resource that supports energy efficiency.
If you’re working to incorporate green building elements into your development, ensure you have a design consultant or architect that is familiar with green building practices, and can advise you on how to implement strategies to mitigate potential impacts of climate change. There are a number of features you can consider:
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Efficient use of energy, water, and other resources
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Use of renewable energy, such as solar energy
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Pollution and waste reduction measures, and the enabling of re-use and recycling
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Good indoor environmental air quality
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Use of materials that are non-toxic, ethical, renewable, and sustainable
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Consideration of the environment in design, construction, and operation
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Consideration of the quality of life of occupants in design, construction, and operation
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A design that enables adaptation to a changing environment
Disaster resilience
Natural disasters are occurring with greater frequency, impacting local conditions in Nevada. Flooding, earthquakes, wildfires, blizzards, and extreme heat often have disproportionate impacts on low-income and other vulnerable populations. Developments should be constructed or adapted for resilience against natural disasters, such as high winds, landslides, floods, winter storms, and wildfires. Specifics will vary by location and site, so ensure you understand your development’s susceptibility and work with your design team to mitigate risks. The Resilience Analysis and Planning Tool is one place to start.