Everyone knows that reducing the utilities cost center for a corporation or organization is good for the bottom line but there are several other financial benefits to reducing energy consumption.

On average a "green building" enjoys:
- 30-50% reduced energy use
- 35% reduced carbon emissions
- 40% reduced water use
- 70% reduced solid waste
But what does that really mean in real value to a building owner or company in terms of value beyond lower utility costs? Following are brief facts that show the additional, verifiable benefits of "going green".
Public Relations Opportunities:
Improving the efficiency of your facility:
- Conserves natural resources
- Reduces pollution and emissions generated via energy production
- Protects ecosystems
- Reduces solid waste accumulation
More than that though, improving the efficiency of your facility:
- Gives you the perfect opportunity to garner constructive, free publicity and press
- Allows you to portray your company in a positive light
- Gives your community and the world a picture of your company as a responsible corporate citizen and steward of the environment.

Significant Financial Benefits:

In addition to reducing your utility bills, "going green":

- Reduced maintenance, replacement and production downtime costs due to greater longevity of everything from lighting systems to HVAC systems to production equipment

- Improves the asset value of your property and increases profitability

- Improves tenant attraction and retention for building owners and leads to higher
premium tenants and higher end leases

- Shows the strength and astuteness of your executive management and attracts
customers and investors

- Improves worker productivity and safety and reduces absenteeism and turnover via
improved comfort, lighting and indoor air quality. According to the US Green
Building Counsel, "green buildings" save $58 billion of sick time and add $180
billion in increased worker productivity annually.

Ultimately a go / no go decision by a company or organization regarding improving energy efficiency should be based largely on cost effectiveness measures and rate of return on the initial investment. However, it would be a mistake not to acknowledge and consider these other significant benefits of "going green" as part of the decision making process.