阅读理解 A Pollution’s disastrous effects on the environment have become more obvious in recent years, leading to a movement to promote energy efficiency ( 效率 ), less reliance on fossil ( 化石的 ) fuels and a reduction in air and water pollution. Most scientists agree that such changes are necessary to protect our environment from further harm. The construction industry consumes a large quantity of energy and resources and creates a huge amount of pollution. In the United States, building and development account for 39 percent of the country’s total energy use, 12 percent of total water consumption, 68 percent of total electricity consumption and 38 percent of carbon dioxide emissions ( 排放 ), according to the Environment Protection Agency. Green buildings use less energy, water, create less waste and are healthier to live, work and go to school in than standard buildings. Builders of green buildings use techniques that use resources more efficiently during the entire building cycle — construction, restoration, operation, maintenance ( 维护 ) and demolition ( 拆毁 ) — than those who construct more regular buildings. The environmental benefits of building green include the protection of ecosystems and biodiversity, improved air and water quality, less waste flowing into streams and the conservation of natural resources. Green buildings can also result in lower operating costs because they typically use less energy and fewer materials and improve indoor air quality, improving the health of people who live there. The process of building green includes technical and artistic planning with nature conservation in mind. Building designs often reflect the surrounding environment and natural resources and use renewable building materials such as bamboo and straw. In addition, recycled resources found locally are used for green buildings, reducing the cost and air pollution associated with transporting materials long distances. Careful site selection is important to minimize ( 最小化 ) human impact on the surrounding environment. For example, placing a structure in an area that allows it to take advantage of cool breezes ( 微风 ) and sunlight can reduce energy use and expenses. More energy and expense are needed for larger buildings as well, so it is important to build small. Green roofs are another feature of green houses that reduce energy use and cost. These roofs are partially or completely covered with plants, which helps to keep heating and cooling costs low, prevent water running off and deal with pollutants. Other features of green buildings often include energy and water conservation, recycling and waste reduction. In addition, renewable energy sources such as solar power, hydropower ( 水能 ) and wind power are used for heat and electricity, which greatly reduces costs and decreases the impact on the environment. 1. What is the text mainly about?