Q: What is likely to have the most impact on the environment?
Phillip Elden: The construction industry is in a position to help conserve resources for the next generation. Consider this–nearly 40% of energy expended is directly related to structural use and buildings in the United States consume nearly 15% of all potable water. The construction industry uses 3 billion tons of raw materials every year, much of which could be substituted with recycled materials.
Q: How does implementing conservation methods affect the environment?
Phillip Elden: If you want to make the world a better place for your children and grandchildren, switching to greener practices is the place to start. For every home that uses green energy, rainwater cisterns, and other conservation methods, the world’s air and water quality gets just a tiny bit better. This helps to protect Earth’s biodiversity and ecosystems.
Q: Isn’t switching to environmentally-friendly practices expensive? How can the average homeowner justify the cost?
Phillip Elden: It may seem slightly more expensive on the surface but implementing green practices helps reduce your energy consumption, thus lowering energy bills. Adding green options to your home will also increase the value of the property, allowing you to get more money back on the investment.
Q: Does sustainable design and technology really make a difference?
Phillip Elden: Green building practices have tangible effects on the people who live in eco-friendly structures. A 2006 study by the University of California found that going green improves a person’s health at home as well as employee satisfaction and productivity in the workplace.
