Newark: Proposed Green Building Ordinance

Newark is a small city completely surrounded by the city of Fremont. It is a rapidly growing area that is close to the bay and various natural habitats. The Green Building Ordinance is something that I think all cities should incorporate into future building plans.

An ordinance will be presented to the Newark City Council on May 24, 2007 followed by a public hearing will be held on June 14, 2007.

Green Building is a whole-systems approach to the design, construction, and operation of buildings that helps mitigate the environmental, economic, and social impacts of buildings. Green Building practices recognize the relationship between natural and built environments and seek to minimize the use of energy, water, and other natural resources and provide a healthy, productive indoor environment. The purpose of this ordinance is to minimize or avoid a variety of adverse impacts by regulating the design, construction, and operation of buildings and landscaping.

Personally I find the concept of having to write up an ordinance that legally mandates the protection of our planet to be slightly insane. I mean, come on now, are we so far removed from our environmental responsibility that we have to have rules put into writing to remind us not to poison ourselves? I guess so. And then threaten ourselves with punishment for not following the rules? Sad! But if that is what it takes then I applaud the lovely city of Newark for wanting to remain environmentally responsible and safe for all who live there.

REAL ESTATE TERMINOLOGY
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