Reasons to Build an Eco-Friendly Home

There are a number of benefits that can be derived from building an eco-friendly home. Using earth-friendly materials to build one's home results in the protection of natural resources, a reduction in water use, a smaller environmental footprint, and a healthier family.

Energy Efficiency

Using green materials, including green insulation materials such as recycled paper or denim products, to build your home can help to increase the building's overall energy efficiency. Geothermal heating and cooling systems and/or solar panelling also contribute to an increase in energy efficiency. These modifications result in overall cost-savings to the homeowner.

Resource Protection

Using sustainable materials such as bamboo flooring protects natural resources that are in danger of being overexploited, such as exotic timber harvested from rainforests.

Water-Use Reduction

Installing water-conserving appliances such as low-flow shower heads, toilets, and efficient dishwashers or washing machines helps to reduce the amount of water used in one's home. This both protects water resources from being over-used and helps to decrease one's water bill.

Environmental Footprint

Using green materials helps to lessen one's environmental footprint, that is, the amount of greenhouse gases expelled into the atmosphere. Materials gathered locally, such as local river stone used in exterior construction, have less of an impact on the environment than materials that must be gathered and shipped from far-away locations.

Health

Green materials, such as low-VOC (volatile organic compound) paints, help to protect human health. Formaldehyde-free building materials also help prevent respiratory problems that may arise from the utilization of traditional building materials.

Resources

• Green Insulation
• Inhabitat: Green Design
• Home Depot Eco Options
• Green Building Materials
• Sustainable Building Sourcebook