Why is Brick Green?

“Green” is the idea that the environmental decisions we make today will resonate for years to come. Also known as “green architecture,” “highperformance building” and “sustainable design,” it expands the focus beyond the building itself, taking into account the longterm impact it will have on the environment, the economy, and human health. The concept of “green” has been around for decades. Early green design often focused on energy efficiency or used recycled materials to promote clean air, water, and soil. However, as environmental awareness has increased, architects and designers are broadening their vision into what is better described as sustainable design. It’s a fast-growing movement among design and construction industry professionals who recognize their role in preserving the integrity of our planet’s precious resources. As sustainable design continues to gain prevalence, the definition of “green” will continue to expand and evolve. More than a trend, sustainable design is becoming the future of architecture. Increasingly, clients are demanding efficient, long lasting design that enhances both the quality of life for their communities as well as their bottom line. Various organizations, institutions, and government bodies are aggressively creating guidelines and criteria to assess the sustainability of buildings and the materials that comprise them. While some standards have already been established, “getting green” requires architects, building professionals, and owners to educate themselves about the environmental- friendliness of building products in order to make responsible choices.