Enterprise has released Incremental Cost, Measurable Savings: Enterprise Green Communities Criteria, a first-of-its-kind study showing the cost effectiveness of meeting Enterprise Green Communities Criteria, the only comprehensive green building framework for affordable housing.
In summary, estimated lifetime savings exceed the initial investment made to incorporate the Enterprise Green Communities Criteria into affordable housing. Green affordable homes offer significant health, economic and environmental benefits to residents by addressing energy efficiency, water conservation, use of healthy materials, high-quality indoor air and location of affordable housing. According to the report released October 21, 2009, integrating the required green measures from the Criteria also can produce substantial increases in the quality of life of residents living in the housing.
“The data points in this study are all the proof we need that fundamental change is possible and on the way.” “We had a strong conviction five years ago when we launched the first phase of Enterprise Green Communities – and now we are going to take best practices and make them common practice.”
Read the full report. (PDF 3MB)