What distinguishes green buildings?

Green buildings are primarily distinguished by their significant reduction of negative environmental impacts. This encompasses a variety of practices and technologies aimed at improving the overall sustainability of building processes. Green buildings typically incorporate energy-efficient systems, sustainable materials, water conservation measures, improved indoor air quality, and site sustainability considerations. These efforts not only minimize the consumption of resources and emissions during the building's life cycle but also enhance the health and well-being of the occupants and the surrounding environment.

Utilizing traditional construction materials does not inherently align with green building principles, as sustainability is more about the sourcing, lifecycle impacts, and performance of materials rather than their tradition. Assuming higher energy costs runs counter to the goals of green building, which aims to reduce energy use and costs over time through efficiencies. Relying exclusively on public funding is not a defining characteristic of green buildings, as such projects can also be financed through private investments and mixed financing models. Thus, the focus on minimizing environmental impacts is what truly sets green buildings apart from conventional construction practices.