11.9.2012
Opportunities and Risks in ‘Green Buildings’ — Be Careful Not to Overstate Certifications and Other Environmental Achievements
Lane Powell Shareholder Mike Nesteroff authored an article in Seattle Business magazine’s November issue titled “Opportunities and Risks in ‘Green Buildings’ — Be Careful Not to Overstate Certifications and Other Environmental Achievements.” In the article, Nesteroff discussed the benefits and risks associated with “green buildings.”
Adopting green business practices in a challenging economy may seem like a luxury, but some tactics, such as reducing a commercial building’s energy usage, actually can save money and make a business more competitive. Problems, however, can arise when the building’s green attributes are oversold. Caution is advised when touting a green certification or using terms like “green building” or “sustainable” because mismatches between expectations and outcomes can lead to protracted disputes.