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This report by the International Institute for Sustainable Development (IISD) and The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI) examines the global state of Sustainable Public Procurement (SPP). It analyzes legal frameworks, national and international programs, and the specific challenges faced by emerging and developing economies in integrating environmental, social, and economic criteria into public purchasing.

This 1998 report by the Rocky Mountain Institute (RMI) and the U.S. Department of Energy examines how energy-efficient building design—specifically improvements in lighting, heating, and cooling—can lead to significant increases in worker productivity, reduced absenteeism, and improved work quality. Through eight case studies of commercial and industrial facilities, the authors argue that the economic gains from productivity often far exceed the direct energy cost savings, making efficient design a highly cost-effective business strategy.

This fact sheet provides guidance for designers and specifiers on reducing embodied carbon in the built environment through strategic design, material substitution, and specification.

This research paper by RMI outlines strategies for integrating energy modeling throughout the four main phases of building design—concept, schematic design, design development, and construction documentation—to move beyond simple code compliance and actively minimize energy use.