ATLANTA - While motivations differ for pursuing green building design, the fundamental principles remain the same. These include incorporation of a whole-building approach to environmental improvement; decision-making based on life-cycle assessment; greater balance between quality, budget, and schedule; and a positive collaboration between professionals.

"For design and construction professionals, I believe many see green projects as an opportunity to pursue excellence, challenge themselves, and stay at the forefront of their professions," said Joy Altwies, P.E., University of Wisconsin-Madison. "For owners and project managers, I think many see that adopting green practices into their projects has been an effective method to ensure higher quality results, attract the most engaged and forward-thinking professionals, while at the same time helping to drive the market toward continuous improvement in creating efficient and healthy buildings."

Altwies will present the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers' (ASHRAE's) "Introduction to Green Buildings and Sustainable Construction" from 1-4 p.m. EDT, Sept. 13. It is one of six seminars being held this fall by the ASHRAE Learning Institute.