ABSTRACT
This chapter presents drivers and definitions of sustainability in the built environment by describing how construction activities affect the natural environment, the economy and society. The concept of sustainability in the Architecture Engineering Construction industry is becoming broadly accepted as part of efforts to reduce negative environmental impacts and natural resource depletion due to human activity. The chapter describes considerations and information sources that are important in product selection and decision making and provides an overview of the systems available for corporate rating and sustainability reporting. It also provides an overview of best practices for the design of green buildings in the areas of sustainable sites, energy optimization, water and waste-water performance, materials optimization and indoor environmental quality. The chapter presents construction-phase sustainability strategies and best practices employed at the Trees Atlanta Kendeda Center along with other cases.
