Green is THE Thing

It seems everyone is talking about going green.

Click Here to link to a Radio Boston (WBUR) discussion on Green Housing in the area.

FYI: To learn more about micro combined heat and power systems for homes, check out Freewatt.

Green Tip

Looking for a simple way to start making your home more energy efficient? Install a programmable thermostat. You could save as much as 1% per year on your heating bill for each degree set back for 8 hours a day (source: Department of Energy).

As an added bonus, NSTAR offers rebates on Energy Star programmable thermostats for gas and electric customers.

Complete the Cycle

We've all seen the recycling symbol, but as so many of us take the time to recycle our plastic, glass, paper, etc., how many of us complete the "cycle" and buy products made of recycled materials? Next time you need to buy paper towels or toilet paper why not purchase a brand made from recycled paper? You may think you won't like it, but it's worth a try. Over time you might find a brand you can live with and make a permanent change.

Take it one step further, next time you're in the market for new carpet, investigate the possibility of carpet made from 100% recycled post consumer food and drink containers. These products certainly complete the cycle and offer many benefits from lower VOC (volatile organic compounds) off gassing and brighter color selection. To get started look visit your local carpet stores and ask about the products or visit GreenFloors or Ecohaus for some information on cost and benefits.

The desire by consumers to "complete the cycle" is creating a whole new world of new products out there, so next time you're out shopping, think about the meaning of the recycling symbol and what you can do to come full circle.

Obama's Remarks on Energy

In case you missed it. To view portions of President Obama's speech before Congress last night on YouTube click here .

Remarks on investment in renewable energy begin at about 5:55.

Green Tip

Going green doesn't have to be a chore. Changes can be made one step at a time and as opportunities present themselves. Start with something relatively painless. For example, buy one or two reusable grocery bags. You may not remember to bring them with you the first few times you go shopping, but over time using them will become more of a habit. Gradually add new bags and before you know it you'll need neither plastic nor paper!

Beware the “Green” Label

It seems that the entire country is trying to be more eco-conscious and join the green revolution. Builders, much like other businesses, have jumped on this bandwagon and are now building "green" houses. However, what exactly does the term "green" mean and how does a potential buyer go about determining the extent to which a property is eco-friendly and energy efficient?

The term "green", unlike the term "organic", does not have any government definition or oversight. In reality, someone can refer to anything as "green". In real estate, the term "green" can refer to a property with photovoltaic solar panels and a geothermal heat pump, but it can also refer to a property with above average insulation and thermal windows. On the other hand, the terms Energy Star or LEED refer to properties that meet the guidelines of the US Department of Energy or the US Green Building Council.

Newly built Energy Star certified homes must meet EPA guidelines and be 15% more energy efficient than homes built to the 2004 International Residential Code (IRC). Energy Star homes are verified through a third party Home Energy Rater and are typically 20 – 30% more energy efficient than standard homes. Energy Star certified homes are available in Massachusetts and more builders are signing on to build properties that meet the Energy Star requirements. Currently 184 Massachusetts on-site builders are Energy Star New Homes Partners. Some of the builders are new partners with homes in planning stage, while others have built over 100 Energy Star certified homes since joining.

Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) supports building projects that incorporate sustainability in five key areas of human and environmental health: sustainable site development, water savings, energy efficiency, material selection and indoor environmental quality. LEED properties, like Energy Star certified homes, are also verified through a third party and are rated certified, silver, gold, or platinum. For those looking for a "green" property, LEED certified homes are the "gold standard" and are a bit more difficult to come by. Currently there are 64 LEED for Homes certified residential projects in Massachusetts.

So what can you do find a home that meets your definition of "green"? You and your real estate agent need to ask questions. Is the home Energy Star certified? Is the property a LEED certified home? If so, what type of rating? What specific features make the property "green"? Each consumer has a different list of desirable "green" property features. The trick is to ask the right questions and work with a like-minded agent willing to go out and find you the right "green" home.