Creating a Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Home
Making sustainable lifestyle changes may seem intimidating and expensive, but that doesn’t have to be the case. Making green changes doesn’t need to be expensive or time-consuming – and green living doesn’t need to break your budget!
Homeowners have many ways they can become more eco-friendly, from simple lifestyle changes to ambitious endeavors like solar power installation. Here are a few ideas: 1. Switch out energy-inefficient appliances.
Energy
Homebuyers today are seeking homes that promote sustainability and offer long-term cost savings. As water and energy costs continue to rise, eco-friendly construction can significantly decrease monthly bills.
Although sustainable homes may cost more upfront, their long-term cost savings make the investment worthwhile. Plus, they’re built to last, meaning less maintenance expenses down the line!
Sustainable and eco-friendly home design doesn’t have to be complex or time consuming; small changes can have a major impact. Selecting eco-friendly building materials, working with home builders who specialize in green architecture and employing natural landscaping in an environmentally sustainable manner are all keys. Planting indoor plants around your house not only improves air quality but can save energy on artificial lighting as they naturally illuminate a room without having to turn any lights on or off!
Water
Reduced water use is a crucial aspect of sustainability and an increasingly popular upgrade among homeowners. Low-flow toilets and showerheads consume significantly less water, as well as being more energy-efficient.
Eco-friendly homes often include smart systems to collect and reuse rainwater. This water is collected from surfaces like the roof and stored in tanks before being reused in flush toilets, watering gardens or even drinking if filtered properly.
Eco-friendly homes use materials that are safer for the environment. For instance, these materials contain fewer volatile organic compounds which have been known to cause various health issues including nausea; skin and eye issues; as well as respiratory difficulties.
Building a sustainable home can be accomplished in various ways, from making small adjustments to renovating the entire structure. When considering sustainable homes as an investment for both the environment and family members alike, contact Fox Blocks now for more information about what sustainable living has in store for you!
Materials
Building a sustainable home often involves using innovative materials that may cost more than traditional ones, yet have less of an environmental impact and save money in the long run. These green materials tend to reduce pollution while simultaneously saving money.
Cob is an eco-friendly material made up of multiple natural elements such as earth, sand and straw that makes for durable homes in most climates. Furthermore, cob can even resist fire damage.
Reusing materials can help to minimize a home’s carbon footprint. For instance, using recycled wood as trim and siding helps preserve old trees that would otherwise become deforested – and reduces greenhouse gas emissions as a result.
Utilizing energy efficient appliances and green cleaning supplies can also help a home reduce its environmental footprint, as can installing low-flow toilets or bidets in bathrooms to decrease water use and waste. Finally, positioning new homes so as to take advantage of natural sunlight will cut heating and cooling bills by taking full advantage of natural sunlight.
Orientation
Orientation refers to the direction in which a building faces. This can be crucially important for many reasons, including street appeal and maximising scenic views; drainage considerations; energy efficiency measures such as taking advantage of free solar energy can reduce home heating and cooling costs significantly.
GS&P is committed to supporting sustainability initiatives through education and participation in community service projects. We would be more than delighted to partner with you on your sustainability goals! Reach out today so we can discuss ways we can work together; offer eco-friendly giveaways such as LED light bulbs or water bottles as incentives to your incoming class; host an orientation community service day; or promote recycling processes through simple posted reminders throughout residence halls!