According to the U.S. Green Building Council, "Buildings in the United States are responsible for 39% of CO2 emissions, 40% of energy consumption, 13% water consumption and 15% of GDP per year, making green building a source of significant economic and environmental opportunity. Greater building efficiency can meet 85% of future U.S. demand for energy, and a national commitment to green building has the potential to generate 2.5 million American jobs."  It's important to do our own part here in Saint Paul to improve our building stock to reduce environmental impact and improve the economy.