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Incorporating natural elements into building design to connect occupants with nature. Example: Living walls and indoor gardens.

Repurposing old buildings for new uses as a sustainable alternative to new construction. Example: Converting an old factory into loft apartments.

Using insulation materials that are sustainable and have low environmental impact. Example: Sheep's wool or cellulose insulation.

Incorporating renewable energy sources, such as solar or wind, to power a building's energy needs. Example: Solar panels on rooftops.

Choosing materials that emit low levels of volatile organic compounds to enhance indoor air quality. Example: Low VOC paints and adhesives.

Architectural approach that takes advantage of the sun's energy for heating and lighting. Example: Orienting a building for maximum solar gain.

Utilizes designs and materials that minimize environmental impact and reduce energy consumption. Example: LEED-certified buildings.

Reusing existing materials from demolition or construction to reduce the need for new materials. Example: Repurposing old bricks in a new construction.

Evaluating the environmental impacts associated with all stages of a product's life. Example: Calculating carbon footprint of a building material from extraction to disposal.

Collecting and storing rainwater for reuse on-site, reducing the demand for potable water. Example: Rain barrels and cisterns.

Enhancing a building's exterior to reduce energy loss and manage thermal loads. Example: Installing proper insulation and high-efficiency windows.

Using the earth's stable temperature for heating and cooling buildings. Example: Geothermal heat pumps.

Reducing, reusing, and recycling building material waste to minimize landfill disposal. Example: Sorting construction waste for recycling.

Designing outdoor spaces to be environmentally sustainable, requiring less water, pesticides, and fertilizers. Example: Xeriscaping with drought-tolerant plants.

Installing fixtures that use less water to perform the same function as conventional fixtures. Example: Low-flow toilets and faucets.

Designing a building to enable air flow through space, reducing the need for mechanical ventilation. Example: Operable windows and ventilation stacks.

Using computer simulations to estimate building energy use and to optimize performance. Example: Simulation software to predict energy consumption.

Using roofing materials with high reflectivity to reflect more sunlight and absorb less heat. Example: White or light-colored roofing membranes.

Collecting and treating wastewater from baths, sinks, and washing machines to be reused. Example: Using treated greywater for flushing toilets.