HONG Kong's profit-hungry developers have been told to put the environment higher on their list of priorities. Architect Ian Butler believes green buildings are best. ''It is time to put behind us the preconceived notion that a green, energy-efficient building costs more and will not let,'' he said. Mr Butler, managing director of RMJM Hong Kong, claimed simple energy-saving measures could reduce costs by 30 per cent. Savings made by better insulation in roofs and walls are being scrutinised by the Hong Kong Institute of Architects and the government. Some developers have adopted a green attitude by supplying architects with specific briefs on environmental issues. According to Mr Butler, studies have shown that Sick Building Syndrome - problems with structures including pollution or certain architectural features - can cause a 40 per cent drop in productivity and 30 per cent rise in absenteeism. ''Although the community is starting to discuss the environmental issue, there needs to be greater acknowledgement of the wide-ranging implications to health and cost that an energy-efficient building can have,'' he said.
