Green 101 Library

The Difference Between High-Performance Home Certifications

When combined with day lighting, heat pumps for HVAC and domestic hot water, and superefficient appliances and fixtures, total energy use in high performance buildings can readily hit 75% less than that of conventional buildings.

PlanIT Impact Cloud-based Building Sustainability Scoring Tool

Architects, engineers, and builders aspire to create sustainable buildings. Yet, accurately measuring building performance throughout the design process has proved costly and time intensive. PlanIT Impact has created a smart modeling platform. The tool provides the fastest and most affordable solution for designers to understand the environmental impact and ROI of the building they’re considering.

Green Home Building: Passive vs LEED vs Net-Zero Energy

There are many types of green home certifications and it can get overwhelming trying to understand the differences. Here’s an easy to comprehend breakdown of three of the most well-known standards to help guide your journey.

Passive House: Interview with Katrin Klingenberg, executive director of PHIUS

Passive Houses are designed to maximize energy conservation and it saves home owners 60 to 70 percent of overall energy consumption and 90 percent of space heating. Learn more about this strategic sustainable design concept from one of the leading experts.

How to Choose the Greenest Heating Option for Your Home

Though your heating system might not be something you think about unless your utility bills are high or your abode isn’t cozy enough, there are several home heating options that both provide adequate heat and are more resource efficient. Keep reading to get general tips about making smart heating decisions, and learn about possibilities you can pursue.

Top 5 Ways to Insulate Your Green Home

Not all insulation is created equal. Some insulation might get an A for fire prevention, but receive Fs in health and safety thanks to its chemical components. Others may be easy on your energy bill but hard on the environment. Here are the top 5 eco-friendly options that also protect your indoor air quality.

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