Understanding Building Incentives for Green Child Care Centers

The types of "green" building incentives currently in place are varied and spread across the national, state and local level. A new report, "Local Leaders in Sustainability -- Green Incentives," gives an overview of the different incentives, explaining their plusses and minuses and recommending those the government should focus on. The American Institute of Architects, the author of the report, says tax incentives, density bonuses and speedy permits are the strongest methods of supporting "green" building. Other incentives the report analyzes, with examples from cities, counties and states, include grants, loans, award programs, technical and design assistance, net metering, leasing assistance, permit and zone fee reductions, rebates, subsidized green premiums and discounts on Energy Star appliances. The report is very helpful if you are planning a "green" child care center.