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Whether it is from misinformation of simply a lack of it, only 7% of American voters identified buildings as the top contributor of greenhouse gas emissions in a recent poll by the American Institute of Architects (AIA).

Studies show that buildings produce 48 percent of dangerous greenhouse gas emissions contributing to climate change, and that they consume 71 percent of electricity produced at U.S. power plants. Despite these statistics, only aerosol cans finished behind commercial buildings (1 percent) as being identified as the top source for greenhouse gas emissions. Power plants (19 percent) and natural causes (15 percent) were thought to be top contributors, while 10 percent of respondents were not sure what the top cause was and 8 percent responded “other.”

Though they weren't aware of a building's impact on climate change, 91% of voters said they would be willing to pay up to $5,000 extra for a more energy effecient, environmentally sustainable home. With cost being a very common factor for the average American not living a greener lifestyle, this study does offer some hope. More education for the public is needed to help them understand the impact of their everyday actions and uses, but it is clear that most know that something is afoot.

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