Green building and sustainability

Words: Karen HickeyAccording to a recent study by Dodge Data & Analytics, global green building is expected to double by 2018. The report found that the percentage of firms expecting to have more than 60 percent of their projects certified – by LEED or another green building program – is expected to grow from 18 percent currently to 37 percent.

Not surprisingly, the top sector for green building growth is commercial construction. EnvironmentalLeader.com reported, “The study found that almost half – 46 percent – of respondents expect to build a green commercial project in the next three years.” The website continued: “Similar to other recent studies, this one finds the No. 1 business benefit to green building is lower operating costs, such as reduced energy costs and total lifecycle costs.”

The contribution of masonry to green building, LEED certification and other sustainability efforts is obviously continuing to grow as well, and mason contractors must keep pace. Therefore, the April issue of Masonry Magazine features an article with some essential information on the new LEED v4 system. It’s all part of perpetuating a sustainable construction industry for the future.

The issue also offers some practical information on using anchors and renting equipment.

Finally, we provide a final wrap-up of the BRICKLAYER 500™ World Championship that took place in February at the 2016 World of Concrete.
Hines Market Square
September 2026

Hines Market Square, now known as Aris Market Square, is a mixed-use, multifamily development located in downtown Houston. The architect on this project, Ziegler Cooper, is known for reshaping the urban landscape. In keeping with their vision, the buildin

Dawn Kornegay
Case Study
Brick Clay Brick Residential
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Understanding Met-Guard Protection in Work Boots
September 2026

Masonry work demands precision and strength, but it also comes with unavoidable risks. From handling heavy materials like brick and block to operating cutting equipment and working in tight, active environments, tradesmen and tradeswomen regularly expose

Andrew Moffatt
MAP Partner
Safety - Footwear
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Making Old Brickwork Look New Again
September 2026

Brickwork is built to last, but mortar isn’t. Over time, exposure to moisture, freeze-thaw cycles, and everyday wear causes joints to crack, crumble, and even recede. What starts as a cosmetic issue can quickly turn into a structural concern if left unadd

Mackenzie Claassen
MAP Partner
Sponsored
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Why Joint Profiles Matter In Masonry Restoration
September 2026

For generations, masonry structures have been defined not only by the brick, block, or stone used in construction, but also by the mortar joints that tie everything together. Whether restoring a historic brick facade, repairing natural stone veneer, or re

Paul Bender
Technical Talks
Joint Reinforcement Jointers Restoration
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