Energy Efficiency VS Green Building?
Here is a question to consider… What is Green Building?
a) Using all the ‘Green Label’ products to meet LEED or NAHB Green Standards?
b) Making an Energy Efficient Home that reduces the carbon imprint of the structure?
c) Both (a) and (b)
Several people have approached me, seeking my thoughts on Green Building (tradesmen, homeowners, and suppliers)… and I have always asked them for their thoughts before I give mine. In all but one instance they have referred to Green Building as ‘green products’ that go into the home.
YES, we have a responsibility to construct a residential or commercial building with environmentally sensitive products that factor life cycle and renewable resources. Nevertheless, we cannot forget about the long-term energy consumption.
I strongly believe that builders and homeowners need to be focused on energy efficiency in new building and retrofitting existing buildings… Can every house be a net-zero energy home? No, but it can be close!!! We are kidding ourselves if we don’t think oil is going to spike to historic highs in the near future. It is important to find new sources of energy, but it is also important to FIX the biggest consumer of energy – RESIDENTIAL HOMES.
