Down to Earth by Kiel Moe explains how you can trace the materials and energy used in a building back to the source. Moe uses as an example the Seagram Building, an icon of modern architecture, and discusses its energy impact. Reading his essay suggests that bronze may not be the most eco-friendly material to use in a building.
This argument can of course be extended to looking at the materials and energy costs of altering an existing building to keep it in use compared to demolishing it and building a new one.
