To build green or not to build green, that is the question

It has never seemed clearer that there are always two sides -- or three or four or five -- to every story. Apparently, environmentally friendly construction can be both good for the environment and difficult for well-intentioned builders.

Some pros of “building green,” according to Rob Hink, Vice President of the South Florida Chapter of the U.S. Green Building Council:

• Better indoor air quality
• Lower electric bills
• Water conservation
• Increased value of buildings over time
• Improved productivity of workers in office buildings
• Knowledge that you are having a hand in environmental conservation!

... and some cons, according to Truly Burton, Government Affairs Director of the Builders Association of South Florida:

• A 2% increase in cost of construction, which translates to higher costs for buyers
• Difficulty in reducing cooling without breaching zoning codes for the minimum amount of glass in homes
• Bulky air conditioner vents that are twice as tall and wide as older, less efficient ones
• A potential $50,000 price for certification by LEED

- Reporting by Emma Miller