Home, Green Home
It's apparent that over the past five years, going green has become the topic du jour. It seems that everyone is
taking steps to green their life, whether through toting reusable grocery bags to the market or driving a hybrid car, this eco-trend appears to be here to stay. But what many fail to realize is that they need to not only green their habits, but their home. "I find that many people become overwhelmed with the whole idea of "green," states Kim Carlson, eco-savvy entrepreneur, green business author and eco-chic lifestyle expert. "If they knew how simple it really was, and the rewards (especially important during this tight economy), I think more would take action."
A green home is defined as:
• One that uses less energy, water and natural resources.
• Creates less waste.
• Is healthier for the people living inside compared to a standard home Your home can be built as environmentally friendly from day one, or made-over into one after years of living there. "It all stems from a new thought process," Kim says. "If you're conscious of the environment while in your home it will trickle down."
But what constitutes a green home?
• First and foremost you should look for a home that is not built on environmentally sensitive sites.
• In addition, you may want to think small. "By default, smaller homes are greener as they use less natural resources to build and it takes less effort to heat, cool and light them," Carlson states.
• If you're building from scratch, your home should also be insulated with non-toxic materials derived from soybean and cotton and built with materials that are rapidly renewable like bamboo or salvaged and recycled like tiles.
If moving or rebuilding is not an option there are easy ways to green your existing abode:
• Try swapping out appliances that are dated or faulty.
• Look for appliances with the Energy Star logo as they use 10-15% less energy than older models. This can also translate into financial savings of as much as $150 a year.
• Another way to save on energy costs is to keep the thermostat low in the winter and the air conditioner slightly high, or off when possible, in the summer.
When it comes to water conservation, start by fixing any leaky faucets or toilets that run. This can save up to 500 gallons a month. Only run washing machines and dish washers when full to cut back on unnecessary water use. Also, get creative, wash your car on the lawn to water your grass at the same time. When you drop an ice-cube on the ground toss it into a potted plant to water instead of the sink, bathe your younger children together and save a tub-full.
Reduce, reuse and recycle. The average American will receive 560 pieces of junk mail each year. Remove yourself from the lists, it will limit your irritation, the mailman's back pain, and the waste of paper. When using plastics make sure you recycle, instead of sandwich bags try Tupperware that can be reused.
Finally, take one last sweep around the house and shut off any lights that aren't necessary. When you must have a lamp on, switch your regular incandescent light bulbs for the Compact Fluorescent Light bulbs, these use 66% less energy and last up to ten times longer.
So whether you're having a complete overhaul or merely tweaking a few home habits, greening your home can be easier than you think.
For more information or tips from Kim Carlson, please contact
Catherine Pope of AAM
at 212.661.1336
or via email at Catherine@aammanagement.com.