The designation green building, also known as a resource-efficient building, generally applies to the construction of larger public or commercial structures. However, the same philosophy, design and materials that make a larger edifice "green," may also be applied to the construction or remodeling of your private home.

The goal of green building is to minimize a structure's negative impact on the environment — both during construction and afterwards. To meet this end, green architects and builders utilize recycled materials, harness alternative energy sources, apply energy-efficient design features, and install various water- and energy-conserving devices. In addition, the surrounding infrastructure factors into planning, so that, for instance, workers in green buildings can take advantage of nearby public transportation and shops. The outcome of this planning and design benefits both the environment and the health of those people working or living in resource-efficient structures.

If you're interested in applying green building practices to your own home construction or remodeling project, the San Francisco Department of the Environment is an excellent resource. From their Web site, you can now access a complete list of Green Building Legislation and Initiatives in San Francisco, including the latest Green Building Ordinance, the LEED Gold Priority Permitting Program, and San Francisco's Rainwater Harvesting Rules for the Private Sector. You'll also find the Resource Efficiency Requirements and Green Building Standards Ordinance for the Municipal Sector. By the way, when you download and print these documents, just make sure to use recycled paper!

See the Department of the Environment's Green Purchasing for Residents Web page for a list of more green building resources.