Green Architecture

Green architecture, also known as sustainable architecture, is a new concept designed to improve economic and ecological efficiency in the construction of new buildings. By using more environmentally friendly resources, the goal is to reduce the impact that construction has on the environment.

Smaller homes are now being preferred over larger ones because large homes take up more space, meaning more resources are required, and larger spaces are more costly and damaging to heat and cool. Small houses that use natural resources, such as rock and grass, as insulation are making their way into the mainstream market. Solar energy is also being preferred as an efficient and inexpensive way to power a house. By harvesting the suns natural light and energy, solar panels allow us to convert that into energy we use to power homes.

Techniques and remedies, such as shower head flow restrictors and low capacity toilets, are new ways to conserve water, saving money as well as our most important natural resource. Plants are also being used to help out. By placing a few plants around the house, air circulation and filtration are greatly increased, improving the quality of life.

But what can you do to help? There are many things you can do to help our environment. Purchasing fluorescent light bulbs instead of tradition ones helps. Fluorescent bulbs use up to 60% less energy and last up to 40% longer. By reusing plastic shopping bags when you go to the grocery store, you can reduce the amount of trash as well as emissions from bag factories. When in the market for a new appliance, choose one with an energy efficient logo, such as Energy Star. Probably the most important thing you can do- RECYCLE!!!

For more reading on Green Architecture, http://alvinadriano.clickrightnow.com/2007/10/10/sustainable-green-architecture/