Green Construction: Building a Sustainable Future
The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) promotes a voluntary, market-driven approach to sustainability in the residential construction industry. At the core of its strategy is the ICC 700 National Green Building Standard (NGBS), the only residential green building rating system approved by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI). The NGBS offers a flexible framework for integrating energy efficiency, water conservation, indoor environmental quality, resource efficiency, and sustainable site development into building practices across various regions and market segments.
NAHB emphasizes that sustainable construction should be practical, cost-effective, and adaptable to local conditions. Rather than pushing for mandates, the organization advocates for consensus-based policies and performance-driven outcomes that encourage innovation. NAHB also supports educational tools and technical resources that help builders, developers, and remodelers voluntarily adopt green practices while keeping homes affordable and durable.
In addition to promoting recognized standards, NAHB provides guidance on implementing green construction throughout a building’s lifecycle—from design and materials selection to construction, maintenance, and operation. The association argues that this approach not only benefits the environment but also enhances occupant health, long-term energy savings, and market value. By combining builder flexibility with measurable sustainability outcomes, NAHB aims to advance environmentally responsible building practices nationwide without compromising housing accessibility.
