The document discusses how buildings are a major contributor to energy usage and emissions in the United States. It notes that the residential and commercial sectors account for over $125 billion in annual energy costs, while buildings produce over 30% of nationwide CO2 emissions. However, public awareness of buildings' environmental impact remains low. The document concludes by arguing new policies from the Obama administration aim to improve building efficiency and help transition the country to more sustainable energy practices.

1. CREATING A MORE EFFICIENT TOMORROW, TODAY A look into the relationship between the energy crisis, building emissions, and revolutionary intelligent design BY: Josh Wentz

2. HOW WE USE ENERGY IN OUR HOMES $81 Billion $44 Billion <http://www.healthgoods.com/Education/Healthy_Home_Information/General_Energy_Efficiency/ee_and_renewable_energy.htm>

3. U.S. ENERGY PRODUCTION VS. CONSUMPTION Randolph and Masters. Energy for Sustainability.. Page 16

4. U.S. ENERGY CONSUMED BY SECTOR <http://www.pewclimate.org/docUploads/Overview_B1.jpg>

5. U.S. CO2 EMISSIONS BY SECTOR <http://inhabitat.com/wp-content/uploads/edmgraph.jpg>

6. PUBLIC KNOWLEDGE “Only 7% of American voters identified buildings as the top contributor of greenhouse gas emissions.” -Recent poll by American Institute of Architects

7. HOPE FROM NEW POLITICAL POLICY “President Obama and Secretary Chu announced a $346 million investment …to expand…the use of energy efficient technologies in all major types of commercial buildings as well as new and existing homes.” “Savings to consumers estimated to be $1 to $4 billion annually from 2012 through 2042” -President Obama http://www.whitehouse.gov/the_press_office/Obama-Administration-Launches-New-Energy-Efficiency-Efforts/>

8. RECAP OF MAIN FACTORS Ruining The Environment & Restricting A Move In Political Process Disconnected building systems Bleak national energy outlook Political policy incentives