Average Reviews:
(More customer reviews)This book provides good information on choices available to those of us wanting to be less of a negative impact to our environment, starting with lifestyle changes as well as what we can do when furnishing, renovating, or building homes. The author recognizes that choices are important because everyone has different constraints and preferences, and what matters more is that individuals can make choices they can commit to.
The book is divided into three parts. Part One discusses building material substitutes that are environmentally friendlier than those they can replace. Part Two goes over technologies and devices that help enhance energy efficiency and improve water usage. Part Three suggests lifestyle changes that one can make to help eliminate waste, and government-sponsored programs that provide monetary assistance or incentives to individuals investing in energy-saving technologies or practices.
Each chapter explains how or why a material, device, or practice is superior to another in terms of environmental friendliness. In many -- but not all -- cases, relative cost comparisons are provided, and the discussion includes other potential tradeoffs so that readers are made aware of pluses and minuses. Almost all but two chapters end with a Resources Section that directs readers to other online information sources.
For me, a key take-away from this book is: Many of the choices that we make to contribute positively to the health of our environment not only make us healthier as well, but could also benefit us in other ways. For example, using energy-saving appliances can lead to net savings in time and money, as owners of front-loaded washing machines will tell you. So despite having minor shortcomings (some of which I've mentioned above), the book is, in my opinion, very well worth reading.
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Greening Your Home: Sustainable Options for Every System In Your HouseChoose Green Systems That Conserve Resources While Matching Your Budget and Lifestyle
A vital conservation and money-saving tool, Greening Your Home provides helpful information that will help you select sustainable green options that match your specific needs for every system in your house. This "one-stop" guide provides the latest information on systems and materials that conserve resources for a cleaner, more energy-efficient home.
From the lively writing, with illustrations and examples, you will learn how to incorporate sustainability into your house in beautiful, cost-effective, and environmentally responsible ways. Both inspirational and practical, Greening Your Home features:
A wealth of green building and remodeling options for homeowners
Photographs and information on green products and systems and their advantages
Your Complete Guide to a Green, Energy-Efficient Home
Material Options: • Structural Insulated Panels • Low-VOC Paints • Replacement Windows • Green Certified Doors • Glass Block • Fly Ash Concrete • Bamboo and Cork Flooring • Plastic Plumbing Pipe • Red Cedar Siding • Recycled InsulationRecent Technology: • Power Consumption Monitors • Timers and Motion Sensors • Low-Flow Plumbing Fixtures • On-demand Water Heaters • Radiant In-floor Heating • Heat and Energy Recovery Ventilators • Whole-house Fans • Spray Foam Insulation • Induction Cooktops • Horizontal Axis Washers/DryersGreen Practices: • Reducing Your Carbon Footprint • Green Power • Saving Money Twice • Community-Supported Agriculture • Growing Your Own Food • Composting Biodegradables • Using Graywater • Making Your Own Cleaning Products • Reusing Containers • Xeriscaping
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