You're looking to build a new home. How can you make sure it's environmentally friendly?

1 Choose a green location

One of the first steps to building an eco-friendly home is to select a suitable site that minimizes the need for extensive land clearing, grading, and excavation. Look for a location that has access to public transportation, bike paths, and local amenities, to reduce your dependence on driving. You can also consider the orientation and topography of the site, to optimize the natural light, ventilation, and drainage of your home.

2 Select sustainable materials

The materials you use to build your home can have a significant effect on its environmental footprint. Choose materials that are durable, renewable, recycled, or certified by reputable eco-labels, such as Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) for wood products, or Energy Star for appliances. Avoid materials that contain toxic or harmful substances, such as formaldehyde, asbestos, or volatile organic compounds (VOCs), that can affect your indoor air quality and health.

3 Design for efficiency

The design of your home can also influence its energy consumption and performance. Aim for a compact and simple shape that reduces heat loss and maximizes insulation. Incorporate passive solar features, such as large windows, skylights, and overhangs, that allow you to harness the sun's energy for heating, cooling, and lighting. You can also install active solar systems, such as photovoltaic panels or solar water heaters, that generate electricity or hot water from renewable sources.

4 Use smart technology

Another way to make your home more eco-friendly is to use smart technology that can monitor and control your energy usage and comfort. For example, you can install a programmable thermostat that can adjust the temperature according to your schedule and preferences. You can also use smart lighting, appliances, and outlets that can be turned on and off remotely or automatically, to save electricity and prevent waste. Additionally, you can use sensors, cameras, and alarms that can enhance your security and safety.

5 Save water and resources

Water is a precious and scarce resource that needs to be conserved and protected. You can make your home more water-efficient by installing low-flow faucets, showerheads, and toilets, that reduce the amount of water you use. You can also collect rainwater or graywater (from sinks, showers, and laundry) in tanks or barrels, and use it for irrigation, flushing, or cleaning. Furthermore, you can reduce your waste and emissions by composting your organic waste, recycling your paper, plastic, and metal, and using green transportation options.

6 Hire a green contractor

Finally, to ensure that your home is built according to your eco-friendly vision and standards, you need to hire a contractor who has experience and expertise in green construction. A green contractor can help you with planning, budgeting, sourcing, and implementing your green features and practices. They can also ensure that your home complies with the relevant codes, regulations, and certifications, such as LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) or Green Globes, that measure and verify your home's environmental performance and quality.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?