Why Green Buildings Cannot Save The Planet

Building environment-friendly structures alone won't help; the real issues are much more complicated argues Jane Powell.

1 minute read

May 16, 2007, 2:00 PM PDT

By Abhijeet Chavan @http://twitter.com/legalaidtech

"'Green building' is the feel-good trend of the moment. Cities stipulate it, builders market it and home buyers supposedly demand it. Who could be against it? It's the panacea that will combat global warming, prevent sprawl, revitalize our downtowns, contribute to the region's economic growth and keep California on the leading edge....The reality is far more complicated....'Green building' is an oxymoron..."

"How many legislators does it take to change a lightbulb?"

"We do what we can -- turn down our thermostats, try to recycle, drive less. We do that because we feel powerless against the real issues: overpopulation, a government that protects corporate profits, an economy based on continually escalating consumption."

Thanks to ASLA: The Dirt

FULL STORY: Green Envy

Monday, May 7, 2007 in The San Francisco Chronicle

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