Sustainable building is the practice of creating structures and using processes that are environmentally responsible and resource-efficient throughout a building's life-cycle from siting to design, construction, operation, maintenance, renovation, and deconstruction. This practice expands and complements the classical building design concerns of economy, utility, durability, and comfort. Sustainable building practices aim to reduce the overall impact of the built environment on human health and the natural environment by:

• Minimizing non-renewable energy consumption
• Maximizing the efficient use of energy, water, and other resources
• Protecting occupant health and improving employee productivity
• Reducing waste, pollution and environmental degradation