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University of San Diego reports increased productivity in green buildings
People whose business careers lead them into jobs in green buildings may have higher levels of productivity.
A new study from the Burnham-Moores Center for Real Estate at the University of San Diego surveyed154 LEED-certified or Energy Star-labeled buildings across the country and measured the effects of working in an environmentally friendly office.
Researchers found that 45 percent of study participants had an average of 2.88 fewer sick days after moving into a green building which resulted in an average net impact of $4.91 per employee.
The authors also reported that 12 percent of participants strongly agreed that employee productivity increased in green buildings, while 42.5 percent agreed and 45 percent noted no change.
Norm Miller, a lead researcher on the study, said that companies should "consider the benefits [of green buildings] in terms of recruitment, retention of employees, less sick time and greater productivity [and] be willing to pay more rent for such space."
Greater interest in green buildings is one reason why the demand for architects, particularly those with green design skills, is expected to increase by 18 percent by 2016. Bachelors and masters programs exist for those interested in pursuing a career in this field. 
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