Define "green building."

A "green building" is best defined as a structure that is environmentally responsible and resource-efficient throughout its life cycle. This definition encapsulates the holistic approach of green building practices, which prioritize minimizing the impact on the environment by using sustainable resources, energy-efficient technologies, and environmentally friendly building materials.

This approach encompasses the entire lifecycle of a building, from design and construction through operation and maintenance, to eventual deconstruction. Therefore, it focuses on reducing resource consumption, increasing energy efficiency, and promoting the use of renewable energy sources, which ultimately contributes to a healthier environment.

In contrast, the other options suggest practices that do not align with the principles of sustainability. For example, maximizing fossil fuel use or requiring more energy than traditional buildings points towards practices that are counterproductive to the goals of energy efficiency and environmental care. Similarly, the notion of using only recycled materials is too narrow; while using recycled materials is beneficial, it does not encompass the broader range of sustainable practices integral to the green building concept.