Val Puddington, Coldwell BankerHappy Homebuyers

What Makes it Green

January 30th, 2009 | Business | permalink

If it seems like everything these days is being re-made into a “green friendly” product, that’s because so many things we take for granted around us can be done in more energy-efficient, environment-friendly ways.

 There are five areas that builders, manufacturers and other energy-informed professionals (like me) look at when we think of green technologies:

 

  • Save Energy
  • Conserve Water
  • Contribute to a Healthy Indoor Environment
  • Protect Natural Resources
  • Reduce Buildings’ Impact on the Community

 

 

Save Energy

Reducing the amount of energy a house consumes is the first thing many of us think of. This can include old-school strategies such as building orientation and window placement during the design phase.  Today we can include appliance selection, since Energy Star-rated appliances are on the market for all parts of the home.  For the very ambitious, features can be included in a house to generate your own energy, such as solar panels.

Conserve Water

Water Conservation is an important measure to take here in the Chesapeake.  The combination of agriculture, industry, and a dense population put a continual strain on the water supply and the fragile ecology of the Chesapeake Bay.  In product selection and landscaping decisions, I can help you find alternatives that conserve water while keeping your home comfortable and beautiful.

Contribute to a Healthy Indoor Environment

Some studies suggest that the air inside our homes is more polluted than the air outside!  Today’s green buildings also work to promote high air quality inside the home.  Formaldehyde-free cabinets, non-toxic caulks, sealers and adhesives, fume-free carpets and pads, and other products can help make your home breathable, livable, clean and green.  There are also products that actively remove indoor pollutants; ventilation equipment and air and water filters create a healthier environment for you and your family.  Other appliances such as Carbon Monoxide detectors, can be life-savers.

Protect Natural Resources

The materials we build with have been changing for the better in recent years.  Quality materials made from recycled content are becoming commonplace.  So have products made from agricultural material, such as wheat straw.  Even salvaged products that get a second life help reduce the impact we have on our forests and other natural resources.

Reduce Buildings’ Impact on the Community

Of course, impact on those around us is the most immediately perceived benefit of thinking in an energy-efficient.  When we use state-of-the-art materials and knowledge in building and renovating, we reduce our impact on our neighbors and enhance the quality of living for those around us and ourselves.

I am a certified Energy Saving Realtor and would be happy to help you regarding purchasing an Energy Efficient home, or if you are going to be selling your property, advising you on the new rules and regulations that you need to comply with when listing your home.