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What is “Green Building”?
It is the convergence of three basic objectives:
- to conserve natural resources
- to increase energy efficiency
- to improve indoor air quality
How can remodelers conserve natural resources?
Approximately 65% of all landfill debris comes from the construction industry. Whatever we can divert from the landfill by salvaging and re-using will help the environment. We also want to preserve our old-growth forests.
How can we protect the old-growth forests if we're using lumber?
We can use FSC Certified wood in certain applications. FSC stands for Forest Stewardship Council, and guarantees that forests are managed to protect old-growth trees.
What's important about increasing energy efficiency?
Improving energy efficiency and using renewable energy sources can improve air quality, reduce the impacts of global warming, and lower your utility bills.
How can we increase energy efficiency?
One example is to replace regular toilets with low-flow models to save gallons per flush. Another example is to buy Energy-Star appliances that use far less energy to operate than older models. Yet another is to insulate hot and cold water pipes to reduce energy needs.
Why would you want to improve indoor air quality?
Many materials, adhesives and finishes used to build and remodel homes contain harmful chemicals. If we can replace them with chemical-free alternatives, we can improve your indoor air quality.
What's an example of a chemical-free alternative?
Natural linoleum and cork are chemical-free flooring materials, unlike vinyl-based linoleum which “offgasses” into your house when it is installed. Cork is also a sustainable resource that doesn't destroy old-growth forests.
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