Development Commission Report Makes Business Case for Green Construction

The Portland Development Commission has authored an excellent paper making a business case for constructing LEED or Green Globes certified buildings.

Among the benefits:
- Reduced insurance premiums and rate credits
(through the Fireman's Fund Green-Gard coverage)
- Decreased operating expenses
(through lower energy and water costs and reduced stormwater discharge fees)
- Tax incentives and credits
(state business energy and sustainable building tax credits)
- Premium rental rates for "green" lease space

The report addresses various green building methods which are not cost intensive such as building orientation, and use of natural ventilation shafts and roof overhangs to reduce energy costs. The report includes six case studies to support its conclusions.

Click here to view the study.