Why? Today, the Union of Concerned Scientists warns that “every living system on the planet is in decline andthat the rate of decline is increasing”. Notable problems include: global warming; ozone depletion; acidrain; soil, water and air pollution; and loss of biodiversity, soil, and ground water resources. 1

The building industry plays a significant role in these issues. Today, buildings in the U.S. consume 30%of the world’s total energy and 60% of the world’s electricity. Consumption in Canada, although not as high in terms of total world values, is at an extremely high level per capita, given our relatively low population. In Alberta, fresh water consumption is the highest level per capita in the world. Typical commercial construction generates 2.5 lbs. of solid waste per square foot of floor space. During the process of construction, land and habitat are disturbed while water and topsoil are washed into stormsewers. 2