Measure once, Cut twice, Pay Twice

Sustainable building and infrastructure has gained much popularity in the last few years, WHY?

Is it because everyone wants to fit the 'Green Model'? I hope so, yet I doubt it. Economics, why people make the decisions they do, has always interested me and inspired me to ask- why? Typically the answer comes down to......... bones, bills, green, denaros, cash, loot, the wad, etc.

I have asked a few business men why sustainable building? More than once I have gotten the answer, " I don't give a **** about the environment, but this green thing works. Not only does a green check increase the value, but it is saving me money in the long run." More efficient appliances, better insulation and higher quality materials may cost more up front, but energy efficiency saves money and better quality lasts longer. Statistical analysis has proven that sustainable building may cost more upfront, take longer to mature but pays in the end. We were shown a very interesting graph in class portraying this, however I do not have access to it at the moment.

Sure, some individuals do care about the environment and will alter their habits for environmental benefit. This is great; however the majority of people are not willing to take on significant cost in doing so. Why do people ride their bikes? One reason may be to reduce GHG's, however there are typically many complimentary reasons; exercise, savings on gas, quicker, lack of ulterior transportation. I am guilty here, I ride my bike because I enjoy it, for health and monetary rewards. I do enjoy doing my part to reduce GHG's however this is not the subject my decision is based on.

In terms of sustainable building I think it is a great idea, and may want to pursue it in my future. Building self sustaining communities makes sense. The measure once, cut twice, pay twice mentality that has occurred in past booms seemed an easy way to make some quick coin, but now it is starting to cost and people are starting to agree that it was not worth it.