Green building, or construction building, is the process of creating structures that are environmentally responsible and resource-efficient throughout a building’s life cycle, from site selection to design, construction, operations, maintenance, and renovation.
This practice complements and expands on traditional building design concerns such as economy, utility, and durability. The term green building can also be used to describe a high-performance or sustainable building.
Green Building Criteria
In many new buildings, recycled materials are used to insulate them. These include old blue jeans and blown-in fiberglass. Insulation now can save you money on your energy bills in the future. Steel and concrete can be used to build walls instead of expensive, volatile wood. There are many “re-stores,” or lumber yards, in cities where you can find recycled building materials. These are often strong, inexpensive, and authentically vintage.
Appliances
Consider low-flow shower heads, composting toilets, and low-flush toilets. Energy-saving washers and dryers are available. You can also hang your wet clothes in the yard on sunny days. Make sure that your HVAC system is clean and sealed.
Flooring
Bamboo (which technically is not a hardwood but a grass) and cork are both inexpensive and beautiful options to expensive hardwoods. Concrete is also a durable and affordable alternative. Old-fashioned linoleum can be made of linen or other natural fibers.
Paint and Other Materials
Paint manufacturers are searching for alternatives to oil-based latex and oils. One option is milk-based paints, which smell like milk when applied and do not contain any carcinogenic chemicals. Recycling glass into tiles for kitchens and bathrooms is becoming more popular. Countertops are also being made from recycled materials, which look as beautiful as granite.
Solar Energy
Solar energy is not just expensive panels on your roof. Consider a solar-powered home by investing in thick, glazed glass windows or more complex photovoltaics. Solar is an upfront investment that can be expensive, but the benefits are seen in your monthly energy bills.
Landscaping
Consider Xeriscaped gardens and areas that have plants that need little watering. Consider rain barrels, which many cities offer through their water-and-energy programs. Or convert your outdoor water system into “graywater,” where you use recycled water from washing machines and dishwashers to water your yard or wash your vehicle. Plant trees native to your region that will shield your windows during hotter weather.
Neighborhood
Look at your locality. Are there community gardens or recycling programs? Public transport? Bicycle paths to avoid traffic? Do you have shops and restaurants nearby to encourage you to walk?