Those who have an understanding of the environmental impact of the production and use of traditional building materials know that a shift to green construction is a must. While the information is out there, and there is some motivation to embrace ecologically sound construction methods, it still hasn’t become a mainstream trend.
So why, at a time when you can’t turn on your local news without hearing about climate change or environmental degradation, is it that the green alternatives are still being ignored?
No one will be surprised to hear that the major factor is cost. It’s a double-edged sword — as long as green building materials are being produced in smaller quantities because demand is low, costs will remain high. And these high costs add an element of financial risk for builders, who are at the mercy of costs that are determined by fluctuations in supply and demand.
Additionally, there are legal risks relating to the certifications of buildings that can affect insurance, and liabilities associated with use of materials still considered “alternative”. The information might not be widespread, but to obtain affordable insurance on a green-built home, or certifications required for builders to sell, people have to jump through hoops. Claims are denied, costs are higher, and these factors continue to make green building more undesirable at all levels. Whichever way you spin it, money is the major underlying factor. The situation will continue until green building is better embraced by construction firms, suppliers and governments worldwide.
The long-term benefits are undeniable. Green building is more economical in terms of its lasting abilities, and of course less taxing on the environment. However, there is still risk involved and that will remain the case until eco-friendly building options become more mainstream.
It’s a cyclical problem that can be overcome with the adoption of better policies, increased knowledge and partnership with insurance underwriters. Once homeowners, builders and policy makers are ready to take the plunge, the factors holding back the potential of green building will be eliminated from the equation. As soon as this day comes, we’re likely to see a shift that takes green building from its alternative status to the mainstream.
At a time when by all appearances, the world is attempting to embrace green alternatives, it's shocking to see that with very simple changes by the people who call the shots, we could be light years ahead of where we are now.
http://www.globalpost.com/notebook/global-green/091119/why-green-building-alternatives-are-ignored-the-mainstream