Green Homes
‘Green homes’ is the term used to describe
new construction and renovations of existing structures designed to
use less natural resources, less energy, less water, and generate less
waste. This idea is really catching on across America as standards are
defined and entire prefabricated homes become available. The American
Society of Interior Designers Foundation (ASIDF) and the U.S. Green
Building Council (USGBC) have developed formal best practices and education
resources to help people find out all they can.
This new generation of green homes can also be voluntarily rated by
the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) scale. These
are guidelines for existing buildings or homes as well as new construction.
None of these organizations actually endorse specific products –
they promote the technology and discerning eye needed to make green
choices.
A lot of new green homes are prefabricated and modular. Any tropical
woods used should be certified by the Forest Stewardship Council –
a non-profit watchdog group monitoring/promoting the responsible use
of the forests of the world. Other green technologies include appliances,
windows, doors and lighting with an EnergyStar rating.