Photo courtesy of CDi Engineers The Seattle Justice Center’s thermal buffer wall reduces energy use from heating, cooling and lighting. The building, completed in late 2002 by Hoffman Construction, was designed by NBBJ.

Get a bead on LEED
Many of the articles in Building Green refer to LEED , so here is a brief explanation for the uninitiated. By JOURNAL STAFF

Green groups set sights on sustainable schools
Schools across the Northwest are incorporating sustainable features.
By KATHLEEN O'BRIEN
O'Brien & Co.


Developers can cut costs with an eco-roof
Until now, economic benefits were tough to prove
By DREW A. GANGNES
Magnusson Klemencic Associates


Market is ripe for green homes
Say 'aloha' to the Lohas, tomorrow's eco-savvy homebuyers
By BEN KAUFMAN
GreenWorks Realty


Mechanical systems shape green designs
Five years ago, engineers were often brought in to design systems for buildings that had already largely taken shape. Not today.
By JOE LLONA
CDi Engineers


In the West, renewable energy gains popularity
Report predicts the state will gain up to 4,330 solar-energy jobs by 2014
By JIM DUNCAN
Sparling


Time for contractors to lighten up — on emissions
More in the construction industry turn to biodiesel as availability widens
By ANN SCHUESSLER
The Rafn Co.


Renovated buildings can go for the gold, too
With creative thinking, liabilities can become assets
By MARC JENEFSKY and JOHN McWILLIAMS
DKA


A sustainable seed grows in South Lake Union
The Cascade EcoRenovation will serve as a living laboratory for urban sustainable living
By MARK JOHNSON
Jones & Jones


Real green buildings start with recycled land
Redeveloping brownfields is risky, expensive and essential
By DAVE COOK
GeoEngineers


Will going after LEED bust your budget?
Whether to pursue LEED certification is a complex issue.
By DOREEN S. GAVIN
AHBL


Treatment plant a showcase for green design
The city of Seattle’s second major new water treatment facility is scheduled for completion in June.
By JOURNAL STAFF


How to make the most of your green building
Owners and tenants need training and commitment
By NANCY HENDERSON and MICHELLE ROSENBERGER
GGLO