What first spurred research into what has now become green building?

San Francisco has an opportunity to reap tremendous economic, environmental, and health benefits by adopting recent advances in "green building"-benefits that will only increase in value over time. Many standard building design, construction, operation, and renovation practices are outmoded, inefficient, costly, and have adverse health and economic effects. The shift to new, environmentally sensitive practices would maintain San Francisco’s status as a leader in urban planning and environmental innovation. A shift to green buildings is also vital to enhancing San Francisco’s livability for its residents, workers, and visitors.