Many architects are going green when designing new buildings

on Tuesday,April 19,2011 21:04

Several building designers are creating energy-efficient structures and facilities in order to obtain the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification, according to the New York Post.

Some companies are focused on reducing energy costs and operating in an eco-friendly building. Some of these organizations, such as Shorenstein, are going as far as sending their employees to different places to educate individuals on how they can switch to a sustainable lifestyle.

“We’ve implemented 27 initiatives ranging from simpler things like attending a training session on using the Energy Star website to using green cleaning methods,” said Lisa Meze, senior vice president for Shorenstein, to the Post.

Even though it may be expensive, switching methods can eventually save money. A New York building is switching its lighting to something more energy efficient. The $400,000 cost will pay for itself in seven months, the Post reports.

The Post continues to explain that as the years progress, the number of eco-friendly buildings will grow. Individuals who are seeking an architect design degree can expect the employment of professionals in this field to increase by 16 percent between 2008 and 2018, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.