Green building consists of using non-traditional building materials and, generally, using alternative energy sources to power your home. Green building materials vary greatly. Most are considered green because they are all natural, but some are considered green because they were produced by energy-conscious companies. For example, there are a number of lumber production businesses that specialize in using traditional lumber but obtaining it in environmentally friendly ways, like by using older trees or by replanting after they’re done. Bamboo is a popular lumber used among green building constructors because it grows much faster than most trees and it is obtained almost exclusively by environmentally-conscious companies. Bamboo leaves are also used in many ways that paper or traditional fibers would be used, except bamboo leaves are completely renewable and don’t require killing or maiming the plant to be obtained. Many green homes also have all-natural insulation, which is just as effective as synthetic insulation except it doesn’t harm the environment and doesn’t come with the harmful respiratory effects that fiberglass insulation does. Natural insulation options are wool or recycled cotton. Other commonly used green building materials include recycled rubber, cork and natural linoleum.
Most green building also uses alternative energy sourcing. Water power is sometimes used and wind generators are often used, although the most commonly seen alternative energy sourcing in green building is solar energy received through solar panels on the roof of the house. Generally, people prefer using solar energy because the panels are less conspicuous than a wind or water mill would be and because the sun is more reliable as an energy source than wind or water, although it is not as powerful. A green building can be done with the intention that the house will be entirely fueled by alternative energy, but most homes are built to use a combination of traditional and alternative energy.
Green building has a variety of advantages over traditional construction practices. Green building materials are safer for people with severe allergies or respiratory problems and pose less of a hazard for threats. Having a green home also saves you a lot of money, especially if you are among the people who live in homes completely fueled by alternative (and therefore, free) energy. Conserving energy not only saves the environment, but it saves money. Energy from renewable sources like wind and the sun are completely free and cost little to maintain after the initial purchase of a generator or panels. Green homes also work to conserve water, using low-pressure pumps and compostable or dual-flush toilets. The upkeep on green homes is roughly the same as an average home, although the energy costs are significantly cheaper. Finally, and most obviously, building green homes are more environmentally-conscious and reduce or even eliminate your carbon footprint.