Green/Sustainable Interiors : F.A.Q.

What is it? • Why should I? • How do I begin? • Where is it going? • Terminology • F.A.Q.

Do Green Design and Sustainable Design mean the same thing?
Although the two terms are often used interchangeably, there can be a subtle difference (e.g. green products specified for a sustainable project). Green Design often implies an interest in design that protects people’s health and well-being (e.g., indoor air quality enhancement, use of ‘natural’ products, safer environments for people with allergies, asthma, or MCS). Sustainable Design often implies an interest in design that protects the global environment and the world’s ecosystems for future generations (e.g. alternative energy sources, rain forest protection, resource depletion). The terms Green Architecture, Environmentally Responsible Design, and Environmentally Conscious Design are sometimes used to imply an interest in both green and sustainable design.

What is LEED?
LEED is an acronym for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design. It is a rating system and certification program for new commercial, institutional and high-rise residential buildings that was developed by US Green Building Council. Projects that are registered with the USGBC and comply with their rating system may be awarded Silver, Gold or Platinum certification. Currently under development are rating systems for commercial interiors and existing buildings.

What is BREEAM?
BREEAM (Building Research Environmental Assessment Method) is a certification system that was co-developed in the UK by Energy and Environment Canada (ECD) and the Building Research Establishment (BRE) in 1990. BREEAM has been used worldwide on the design of over 900 buildings, making it an international method for assessing buildings in terms of energy, environmental impact, indoor health, and productivity. The methodology has been widely used in Europe, Canada, Hong Kong and the US. Adapted for Canada in 1997, BREEAM Canada is published by CSA as their Publication Plus 1132.

Are the LEED and/or BREEAM rating systems the only options?
Some corporations and institutions have chosen to develop their own compliance systems that are more appropriate for their particular situation or working methodologies. Kaiser Permanente, a strong advocate of Green Design that has a portfolio of over 50,000,000 sq. ft. of healthcare space, has chosen this option.

I feel overwhelmed by the certification programs and all of the product information currently available from manufacturers. Is there an easier route to Green/Sustainable design?
Many designers and facility managers begin by identifying a few meaningful Green/Sustainable selections that they can make with ease on every project. This list will expand as they become more familiar with green/sustainable design movement.