Going Green

Going Green

A changing awareness regarding our environment has become the forethought of many homes and businesses. Changes enacted by manufacturers, communities and individuals have allowed the average American to make changes in their everyday's lives, making an impact on the environment, one person at a time. The “Going Green” trend is allowing us to make changes in our homes, our workplaces, our communities and schools.

According to National Geographic's website “The average home actually contributes more to global warming than the average car. This is because much of the energy we use in our homes comes from power plants that run on fossil fuels” (National Geographic). Approximately 40% of all consumed energy is used in the home (EnergyEfficientAppliances.org). A green home uses less energy, water and natural resources; creates less waste and is healthier for people living inside. From energy efficient appliances to alternative energy the home is starting to become one of the leading sources for environmental awareness.

Energy efficient appliances were introduced on the market in 1992 (EnergyStar.com). Initially this voluntary labeling program was designed to identify and promote energy-efficient products to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Computers and monitors were the first labeled products. Through 1995, EPA expanded the label to additional office equipment products and residential heating and cooling equipment. In 1996, EPA partnered with the US Department of Energy for particular product categories. The EnergyStar label is now on major appliances, office equipment, lighting, home electronics, and more. Through its partnerships with more than 9,000 private and public sector organizations, EnergyStar delivers the technical information and tools that organizations and consumers need to choose energy-efficient solutions and the best management practices. Over $14 billion in energy savings can be attributed to people's efforts to the “Going Green” in 2006 alone (EnergyStar.com).

There are many alternative energy sources or energy saving options within the home that have been introduced to the average consumer over the past decade. From metal roofs to new design techniques, the US homeowner and homebuilder have many options. Some of the most common considerations in green building are: land use planning and design techniques that preserve the natural environment; energy efficiency in heating and cooling systems; appliances; lighting; and the building envelope; water conservation indoors and outdoors; materials that are recyclable; durable; have little or no toxicity; and emit few or no volatile organic compounds (vocs) associated with indoor air pollution; indoor environmental quality in which moisture; ventilation; and pollutants are managed; waste reduction; reuse; and recycling during construction and home maintenance (building a green home).

One of the most important advancements within green homebuilding is the technology. Through the collaboration of scientists, environmentalist and architects, new products are hitting the market allowing us to build homes using materials that are not only very energy efficient, but also are environmentally friendly. Green homes are safer, healthier, more comfortable, and more durable than conventional homes and will greatly improve the overall quality of life for the homeowners. There are many other benefits to building green homes, starting with ...