Education officials used to debate whether they could afford to pursue green design and construction. Now the green movement has gained a foothold not just in education, but in society at large, and the prevailing attitude seems to have shifted. Can schools afford "not" to go green? As budgets are slashed repeatedly, education administrators must put a premium on efficiency. Dollars saved through more efficiently operated facilities can help prop up critical education programs that otherwise would fall victim to dwindling financial support. So even as schools and universities eliminate jobs, increase class sizes and scramble for other ways to reduce expenses, many of these same institutions are maintaining or extending their commitment to energy-efficient and environmentally friendly design and construction, and to operational practices that provide safe, healthful and cost-effective learning and working environments.