homes accelerate in our countries . Our prediction is that 2015 will be the year green building comes of age in the emerging markets , as it now makes good business sense to go green by investing in and developing eco-friendly real estate .”
The report from McGraw Hill Construction shows that the main motivation is no longer idealistic values . There has now been a push for green building as this offers good business opportunities and investment . Green building practices have become widespread as this is now considered as a “ long term business opportunity around the world ”, the report states . In 2015 , the driving force behind the worldwide green building trend is a higher market and client demand , lower operating costs as well as branding and public relations .
Of course there are also important social and environmental reasons for building green , such as improved health and productivity benefits , water use reduction , lower greenhouse gas emission and natural resource conservation . Nevertheless , these also lead to certain financial benefits , including decreased operating costs , increased building values for green projects , and increased asset value for green buildings .
“ For these reasons , green architecture is not only about doing the right thing or being groundbreaking , but in fact developers and property players can also save money by introducing these principles ,” Hermann added . “ Additional benefits include lower energy costs , water maintenance , and especially tax credits and other financial incentives .”
RESOURCES
Lamudi Property
32 Commercial Handbook 2016 www . reimag . co . za