Modern building practices show little regard for energy efficiency, environmental or social impact of the built environment over their entire life cycle. Resources such as ground cover, forests, water and energy are depleted to give way to buildings. On an average, worldwide building construction consumes approximately 17% fresh water, 25% wood stock and 40% material and energy produce. This indiscriminate use of natural resources puts pressure on the ecosystem. During building construction, vast quantities of waste material is created, and during building operations, large amount of energy is consumed, contributing extensively to environmental pollution. This paper presents the various aspects and benefits of green buildings along with building environment assessment tools and rating systems followed worldwide. Life cycle cost analysis is performed to prove the economics of green buildings vis-à-vis ordinary buildings.

'Buildings and climate change', the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP) recently reported that on a worldwide basis 30-40% of all primary energy is used in buildings (Sinha, 2009). With growing concerns about the environment and the ongoing energy crisis, the concept of green building was developed. A green building consumes minimum natural resources for its construction and operation throughout its life, in order to conserve the non-renewable resources. It also emphasizes the reuse, recycling and utilization of renewable resources. A green building focuses on increasing the efficiency of use of the resources. It is an outcome of the joint efforts of architects and engineers, landscape designers, services and energy consultants.

The expenditure on the design and construction of a green building is more compared to a conventional building. However, the operation cost of green building is less along with the environmental benefits and a better place for the occupants. Thus, the green building offers a challenge to provide all benefits at a competitive price vis-à-vis a conventional building.

Infrastructure Journal, Green Buildings, Environmental Pollution, United Nations Environment Program, Energy Crisis, Natural Resources, Green Architecture, Commercial Buildings, World Meteorological Organization, Non-Commercial Organizations, Greenhouse Gas Emissions, Performance Assessment, Information Systems, Indian Construction Sectors.