About a quarter of U.S. emissions are produced by private homes, and America pumps the highest amount of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere compared to every other country on the planet. Unfortunately, household energy consumption is predicted to grow to 41% by 2035.
In the housing sector, green architecture is trending high as consumer behavior shifts more towards climate consciousness. Advancements in modern technology have made owning a home outfitted with sustainable solutions such as solar panels, insulation, energy-efficient heating/cooling, recyclable materials, and much more is becoming the new normal as homeowners seek to do their part in fighting the climate crisis.
Smaller Homes Will Demonstrate a Dedication to Clean Energy
Studies show that larger homes increase one’s carbon footprint by 15 percent than smaller homes. Purposeful building that optimizes energy is a significant part of keeping the modern housing market green. Smaller homes designed to stay cool in warmer climates and warm in colder climates will help owners reduce their dependence on heating and cooling systems. Solar panels are predicted to start popping up in homes across America, and clean energy will be used to heat water in homes and even power electric car chargers.
Innovative Sustainable Materials
Bio-materials, upcycled fixtures, linoleum, concrete, and bamboo floors are all items with a low carbon footprint that can be used to build and furnish a home. Using local materials is also best to reduce the number of carbon emissions required to transport materials from another location. Conserving trees when building a home is also something that builders are more mindful of when architecting a green home. Building homes around trees, moving trees, or replanting a tree for every tree that has to be cut down is an excellent way to keep your local ecosystem balanced. When possible, building on natural clearings and designated lots will preserve local vegetation.
Water Conservation Will be a Must Have
Using water sparingly, especially in water-scarce parts of the country, will be a critical part of green architecture. Low-flow toilets, energy-efficient washing machines, and landscaping designed to require little water will help communities that suffer from droughts to conserve much-needed water. Harvesting rainwater in tanks, cisterns, or barrels is a great way to conserve water, and some states offer a tax credit for those who do so. Most states do not regulate rainwater collection, but there are a couple that do. Homeowners should be sure to check local laws on rainwater collection and usage before starting.
Where You Live Matters
Choosing to own a home in an area that can easily access public transportation and is located close to schools, grocery stores, and other necessary locations that are often frequented will help households lower their carbon footprint and save car trips. As the green building revolution continues to expand, affordable housing is expected to increase as the construction industry advances into sustainable solutions that make housing more equitable for all.
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