Traditionally, buildings have been created to meet certain needs—function, comfort, and budget—but minimally focused on how well they fit with the natural environment. They also have been designed and constructed for uses and conditions of the moment, and therefore usually require remodeling or replacement when needs or circumstances change, a costly approach both financially and environmentally. Buildings tend to be thought of as static edifices that remain the same over decades, interacting little with their environment or occupants. Sustainable design has begun to change these conceptions through the establishment of green building standards and rating systems intended to create buildings that respond to the environment. Read more...