A definition from the United State Environmental Protection Agency:
Green 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. Green building is also known
as a sustainable or high performance building. 