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fairly simple: choose energy efficiency wherever possible; work in harmony
with the natural features and resources surrounding the project site; and use
materials that are sustainably grown or recycled rather than new materials
from non-renewable resources.
Building materials may be sought within a 500-mile radius of the building
site to minimize the use of fuel for transportation.
The building itself may be
oriented a particular direction to take advantage of naturally occurring features
such as wind direction and angle of the sun. When possible, building materials
may be gleaned from the site itself; for example, if
a new structure is being
constructed in a wooded area, wood from the trees which were cut to make
room for the building would be re-used as part of the building itself. Taking
advantage of available natural light reduces dependence on artificial (energy-
using) light sources. Well-insulated windows, doors, and walls help reduce
energy loss, thereby reducing energy usage.
Low-impact building materials are used wherever feasible: for example,
insulation may be made from low VOC (volatile organic compound)-emitting
materials such as recycled denim, rather than the fiberglass insulation which is
dangerous to breathe. To discourage insect damage, the insulation may be
treated with boric acid. Organic or milk-based paints may be used.
Architectural salvage and reclaimed materials are used when appropriate
as well. When older buildings are demolished,
frequently any good wood is
reclaimed, renewed, and sold as flooring. Many other parts are reused as well,
such as doors, windows, mantels, and hardware, thus reducing the consump-
tion of new goods. When new materials are employed,
green designers look
for materials that are rapidly replenished, such as bamboo, which can be har-
vested for commercial use after only 6 years of growth, or cork oak, in which
only the outer bark is removed for use, thus preserving the tree.
Good green design also reduces waste, of both energy and material. Dur-
ing construction phase, the goal is to reduce the
amount of material going to
landfills. Astutely designed buildings also help reduce the amount of waste
generated by the occupants as well, by providing onsite solutions such as
compost bins to reduce matter going to landfills.
To reduce the impact on wells or water treatments plants, several options
exist. “Greywater”, wastewater from sources such as dishwashing or washing
machines, can be used to flush toilets, water lawns, and wash cars. Rainwater
collectors
are used for similar purposes, and some homes use specially de-
signed rainwater collectors to gather rainwater for all water use, including
drinking water.