Q: What is green building?A: Green building refers to methods used to build “environmentally responsible and resource-efficient” buildings, starting with design and proceeding through construction, maintenance, and even demolition if necessary (Wikipedia). The primary goals of green building practices include improving water, energy, and other resource use, improving health and productivity of occupants, and reducing waste and pollution.Q: Who regulates green building in America?A: The non-profit trade organization known as the U.S. Green Building Council developed the LEED certification system in 1994. Today, the system is internationally recognized as a means of verifying that a structure meets green building standards. LEED stands for Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design. A new standard released in 2010, the International Green Construction Code (IGCC) is designed to further assist the construction of green buildings.Q: What are some academic institutions devoted to sustainable development practices?A: The Center for Sustainable Global Enterprise at Cornell University is designed as a learning and research institution aimed at moving business practices toward sustainability. The Sustainable Global Enterprise Immersion program, one of six choices open to students at Cornell’s Johnson School, allows students to analyze past case studies and develop their own research. The University of Michigan’s Erb Institute for Global Sustainable Enterprise takes an interdisciplinary approach to a similar subject, namely the relationship of humans, the environment, and economics. An MBA/MS program is available at the Institute.Q: What are my ecological and carbon footprints, and how big are they?A: An ecological footprint is measured by population, not by individuals or organizations. The measure compares human’s ecological demands with the Earth’s ability to regenerate. A per capita ecological footprint value can be obtained by dividing a country’s total ecological footprint by its population. A carbon footprint is a subset of the ecological footprint measure. It refers to “the total set of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions caused by an organization, event, product or person,” as defined by the UK Carbon Trust. Carbon footprints can be measured through a greenhouse gas emissions assessment.Q: How can I support smart growth practices in my neighborhood?A: Walk, ride a bike, or take public transportation to work. Encourage your family, friends, and co-workers to do the same. Discuss future development plans with city leaders and planners. Support initiatives to focus growth in already developed areas and conserve resources for future use.