Key Ingredients for Green/ Sustainable Homes

Green buildings have taken center stage in the last decade. People all around the world are shifting their focus towards sustainable and eco-friendly ways of living, hence the need for a green home has grown multifold. To know about green buildings and importance click here.

The green home market is expanding as more and more consumers are conscious about improving the quality of their home, reducing energy consumption and decrease negative impact on the environment. The following is a list of basic but impactful things that make green buildings key towards achieving sustainable living.

Small Home:

The key to having an advantage with green home is to build it smaller. A smaller home has less energy consumption and comparatively lesser effect on the environment. Also, construction of a small green home is more manageable and cost-effective.

Solar Power:

The best source of clean and low-cost energy is solar power. Construction of a new home should be done in a way that maximum advantage of solar power is taken. Placement of solar panels in a home can make the most efficient energy investment for any household.

Roofing Material:

Using green building materials or eco-friendly materials during construction of home plays a significant role in reducing energy consumption. The materials used to build roof should reflect the sunlight away. This naturally keeps the home cool during the day and reduces the need for air-conditioners and other cooling appliances in the house.

Growing Plants on Roof:

Growing plants on the roof is a creative and effective way to go green with homes. Having plants on the roof acts as a cooling filter which traps water and keeps the roof cool. Many commercial green buildings have plants on roofs and walls however this is yet to be incorporated in residential projects.

Reuse & Recycle:

Using recycled material and eco-friendly materials in the construction of house can reduce cost and impact on the environment. Recycled materials such as reclaimed wood, glass, and metal not only reduce cost but help in sustainable growth. Use insulating materials such as cotton, wool, and wood pulp cost low in the initial phase and save money in the long run. Wood is a renewable resource and works as a great insulation for climate control. Environment-friendly products like linoleum have a long lifespan. Flooring made with such substances can last up to 25-40 years.

Water Recycling:

Water should be used judiciously since water levels in India are going down. Installing rainwater harvesting systems and storing rainwater can do wonders. Collecting rainwater in underground tanks can be used to water plants, wash bays and maintaining landscapes.

Energy Efficient Appliances:

Installing energy efficient appliances help reduce the energy consumption. Items such as CFL bulbs, LED street lights, Energy Star rated appliances and solar-powered water heaters etc. contribute significantly towards energy conservation.

Adopting green building techniques and designs can help save up to 40-60 percent of energy consumption. Not only are green homes more beautiful and eco-friendly but they are also cost-effective in the long run. Above all, patrons of a green building can live with the fact that their house is contributing towards the betterment of the planet.