Pete Spittler Corrects Common Sustainability Misconceptions

February 05,2013

Sustainable architect finds many common myths about green development.

Pete Spittler Corrects Common Sustainability Misconceptions

Pete Spittler has found that there are many misconceptions when it comes to sustainability. Throughout his career, the successful architect has worked hard to ensure buildings are developed with the environment in mind. Pete Spittler also works to correct common misconceptions about sustainability in order to better educate the public and the building committee on the importance of protecting the environment.

Many people don't realize sustainability is officially recognized by the United Nations. As Pete Spittler describes, in 1987, sustainability was defined as a way to meet society's needs while still keeping resources around for future generations to be able to meet their own needs. Pete Spittler believes this definition encompasses not only builders and developers, but also owners of corporations and every other resident on the planet.

Pete Spittler also stresses that sustainability isn't interchangeable with the word œgreen. Sustainability simply refers to using the technology and knowledge we have at our disposal today to meet our needs while minimizing the use of natural resources. Sustainability is also more than a passing trend, as Pete Spittler has found some people believe. The government is increasingly implementing policies and processes that will keep our environment safe for many years to come.

Some people have the misconception that sustainable development is expensive, but Pete Spittler has found significant cost savings can be achieved. Initial implementation can be pricey, Pete Spittler acknowledges, but over time, reduced utility bills can make a big difference. Pete Spittler also points out that tax incentives can add to those cost savings, especially for large corporations.

Pete Spittler has learned some builders are hesitant to work toward LEED Certification, even when they've taken all the measures necessary to get it. Some builders incorrectly assume it's cumbersome and excessively expensive. Pete Spittler recommends appointing someone who's familiar with the process on a design team to help throughout the process. By getting LEED Certification, Pete Spittler states that builders can not only include a plaque to let the world know the building meets requirements, but it also ensures that the building truly is compliant.

Many people justify staying away from solar energy with the myth that creating solar panels expends more energy than they save in their lifetime. Pete Spittler tells us that, in some applications, the payback for solar energy panels is only four years, with these panels generally spanning a life of 25 years. Additionally, adding solar panels can improve the resale value of a building, which is especially important for residential developments.

Pete Spittler goes on to tout the value of solar energy both in cloudy environments and for widespread areas. Every square inch of solar energy we implement in this country can create significant reduction in dependence on fossil fuels.

Pete Spittler is an urban planner and architect who has worked on a wide variety of projects. Currently, he is working on mixed-use developments in Ohio.

378

views

PDF Print Email Report

Contact

Pete Spittler

(216) 337-1571

Pete Spittler

Featured Sections