Companies and institutions all over the world are aggressively pursuing energy efficiency measures. It seems like every day you hear or read about a new project being undertaken to reduce electrical demand. As we enter into 2010, this undertaking will become more popular in terms of its adoption and more important in terms of its impact.

The federal government has made its stance known with a focus on home weatherization. If we are to move towards a reduced carbon state we need to start with existing building stock, with homes representing a decent percentage of that. I myself have been taking inventory of things like appliances and windows in my apartment to see what measures I can take. While there’s not a whole lot I can do as I live in a rented apartment in a small student community, it is still important to change what I can. This revolves mostly around lighting and living habits. Swapping any incandescent bulbs out for CFLs, taking shorter showers, and putting on extra layers of clothing instead of using the heater. That’s all good and well to a point, but I also live with three other people who all have different ideas of comfort. That's something a little harder to work with.

In addition to housing, companies all over the world are taking more notice of their energy usage and finding ways to reduce it. As greenhouse gas emission reporting takes on a larger role, we will see more firms sign up for sustainable business practices. Just this week it was announced that Ford Motor Co., Coca-Cola and Kraft foods are joining this bandwagon to seek out new cost-reduction strategies. What an age to live in, when big corporations such as these follow the path of being more environmentally conscious. Despite all of this, I need to touch on a topic brought up by Lucas Johnson in his column last week. That is, efficiency doesn’t mean much if it lies within a system that still harms the environment.

In terms of the position he put forth in his article I completely agree. Just because I personally take shorter showers and switch light bulbs to more efficient models doesn’t make it all better. My apartment still draws its power from a plant that burns coal to drive its electricity generation. The structure itself wasn’t exactly designed with efficiency in mind. These companies as well still manufacture thousands upon thousands of products that all consume raw materials and petroleum products.

However, I feel that this increasing priority on efficiency is at least one step in the right direction. Now that many people look at energy-saving measures without labeling it ‘hippie’ or some other derivative, it means that they are more receptive to change. This change starts small, with homeowners and businesses replacing lights and fixtures. Then it gradually builds up to demand for renewable energy sources, sustainable construction materials, and healthier environments. While this all sounds so grandiose and cliché, it’s important to think about what will happen this year and its impact on environmental demands.

What trends do you see growing in 2010? How will they contribute or detract from the green building movement? Check out our group, 2010 and beyond, and let us know your thoughts!