By Dr Mukesh Kwatra
In today’s progressive world, there is a rapid increase in awareness of the climate change effects and environmental consciousness. Eco-friendly or sustainable way of life is the buzzword and there is a drastic shift in how everyone looks forward to living their lives. The concept of eco-friendly or green homes has gained unprecedented importance. People are now realizing that the choices they make in building, operating and maintaining their homes can have a significant impact on the environment. These sustainable homes not only reduce our carbon footprint but also offer a healthier and more economical way of living.
Eco-friendly homes, often referred to as green or sustainable homes, are designed and constructed with the environment in mind. Their key features include energy efficiency, responsible resource usage, minimal waste generation, and the use of renewable materials. These homes aim to reduce their environmental impact while providing comfortable living spaces. Here’s why green homes matter:
Reduced Energy Consumption
Eco-friendly homes are built to be energy-efficient, meaning they consume less energy than conventional homes. They incorporate insulation, double-glazed windows, and energy-efficient appliances, reducing the need for heating and cooling. This not only reduces energy bills but also decreases greenhouse gas emissions, making a substantial contribution to combat climate change.
Renewable Energy
Green homes often incorporate renewable energy sources, such as solar panels and wind turbines. By generating their own electricity, they reduce their reliance on fossil fuels, further decreasing their carbon footprint. Even the energy needs of the local communities are sometimes met by the renewable energy generated. This is a significant step toward a sustainable future where green energy sources are prioritized.
Water Efficiency
Sustainable homes use water-saving fixtures and appliances, reducing water consumption. They also often incorporate rainwater harvesting systems and greywater recycling, further decreasing their environmental impact and conserving this precious resource.
Reduced Waste
During construction, eco-friendly homes aim to minimize waste by recycling and reusing materials. Some such homes are constructed by using recycled materials which include bricks, and doors etc taken from old demolished places. This not only reduces the environmental impact of construction but also showcases the importance of responsible resource management. Besides, in these homes waste generated is separated into different bins so that minimum waste goes to the landfills. They also make compost of the green waste.
Improved Indoor Air Quality
Green homes are designed with the health of the occupants in mind. They utilize non-toxic building materials, such as low-VOC paints and formaldehyde-free cabinets. Green homes have adequate air purifying plants such as snake palm, areca palms, spider plants etc, which not only produce oxygen but also clean the air.
Natural Ventilation and Daylight
Eco-friendly homes often incorporate design elements that maximize natural ventilation and daylight. This not only reduces the need for artificial lighting and cooling but also creates a more comfortable and inviting living space.
Enhanced Resilience
As climate change brings more extreme weather events, eco-friendly homes are often built to be more resilient. This can include reinforced structures, hurricane-resistant windows, and other features that help homes withstand the impact of severe weather.
Lower Operating Costs
While the initial investment in eco-friendly homes might be slightly higher, the long-term operational costs are significantly lower. Reduced energy and water bills, along with the durability of sustainable materials, can result in substantial savings over time.
Increase in Awareness
As people are more and more shifting towards sustainable housing, the collaboration between the developers and organizations like NGOs, government agencies promote platforms to share ideas, techniques, knowledge, financial subsidies and policies that support eco-friendly homes. Training workshops and certificate programs are advocated to make the real estate industry more efficient towards environment friendly development.
Market Value
Green homes have a higher market value and tend to appreciate more rapidly than conventional homes. They are also in increasing demand, making them a wise investment for the future.
Lead by Example
By choosing eco-friendly homes, individuals and communities send a powerful message that they care about the environment. This encourages others to follow suit and creates a ripple effect towards more sustainable living practices.
Eco-friendly homes are a critical component of our efforts to combat climate change and create a more sustainable future. These homes embody the principle of “where green matters” by reducing energy consumption, carbon footprints, water usage, and waste generation. Living in eco-friendly homes and using sustainable home products in our daily lives is the right way to contribute to making our Earth a toxic-free place.
(Dr Mukesh Kwatra is the founder of Smiling Tree. Views are personal)
