When asked to envision the source of carbon emissions, many would conjure images of smokestacks, exhaust pipes and chimneys, belching out puffs of dark smoke. Most carbon emissions, however, boast a far more urbane and polished origin: commercial buildings. In fact, buildings account for 39 percent of the United States’ carbon dioxide emissions from fossil fuels each year — more than the emissions from the industrial and transportation sectors. Specifically, electricity is the most common source of such carbon dioxide emissions. Because buildings consume 70 percent of the electricity load in the United States, even a marginal reduction in electricity usage and carbon dioxide emissions can create a significant impact.
With these statistics in mind, new commercial construction is greener, more sustainable and more energy efficient, with some new buildings earning Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification. While new construction is increasingly energy- and water-efficient, 40 percent of our nation’s commercial buildings are at least 30 years old. These existing buildings are often far less efficient than their newer, greener counterparts.
