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In a world that is "going green," the most important consideration is the place we live, our homes. When we build green, or renovate green, we consider how to best use what resources we have and how best to use them, and we consider the impact to the environment and the surrounding areas. In the past, not too much more than 100 years ago, people "built green" all the time, by using local materials, making as little impact on their surroundings, and using all natural materials.
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Matt Golden (Sustainable Spaces) on View From the Bay |
These days, green means so much more, not just in selecting the right building materials and location. Now we must consider the design, the construction, and the operation of a home to ensure the greatest energy efficiency, while maintaining indoor environmental quality. Above all health, comfort, and energy are the primary concerns for us as well as the homeowner. Things that go into a green, energy efficient home include:
Energy-Efficient Features
Many of the energy-efficient qualities of a green home are easy to spot. Appliances, windows, and water heating systems will likely have ENERGY STAR® ratings. The home should also include efficient lighting fixtures and bulbs. Renewable energy sources, such as photovoltaic electricity and water heating systems, further decrease the overall energy consumption within the home.
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Matt Golden (Sustainable Spaces) on The Ellen Show |
Water-Efficient Features
Fixtures and appliances such as low-flow showerheads, faucets, and toilets, and ENERGY STAR dishwashers and washing machines all conserve water. Programmed, low-volume irrigation systems, rainwater collection systems, wastewater treatment systems, and hot water recirculation systems also save water.
Resource-Efficient Features
These decisions—from home size, to orientation on the lot, to floor plan layout—are made in the design of your home and development of the lot. The house orientation and design should take advantage of natural daylight to reduce lighting needs, and should use strategies to reduce heat gain in the summer and heat loss in the winter. The home should contain renewable materials, including rapidly-renewable wood species such as bamboo, and recycled-content materials in carpets, tiles, and concrete formulations.
Indoor Air Quality Features
The heating, air conditioning and ventilation system (HVAC) must be appropriately sized for an efficient and properly ventilated home. Fans in the kitchen and bathrooms should cycle fresh air inside, and release stale air. Low-VOC paints and finishes and wall papers should be used as well.
Outside the Home
In a green home, care should be taken to preserve trees and other vegetation native to the area. Landscaping should contain plants that are appropriate for the climate, and grouped according to water needs. Driveways and other impervious surfaces should be reduced as much as possible, and may be composed of gravel, permeable block pavers, grids, or other permeable systems.
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