The term sustainable design can mean a number of things. A smaller home is more sustainable than a larger one. The same goes for a home constructed with renewable materials (straw bales, grasscrete, etc.) or homes that have their own energy/water source. Now, if the definition is so loose, when does one gain the right to label their home as green or sustainable? If you’re not doing it for the label but for the benefits, how much can you really achieve through this design? In order to figure this one out, here are the top five benefits of sustainable home designs for you to consider.
It’s an ethical thing to do
Talking about the problems of modern society without lifting your finger to do anything about them is a tad hypocritical. One of the best ways to change this is to start with your own home. By reducing the number of emissions produced by your own home, reducing its power spending (by increasing energy-efficiency) and overall reducing fossil fuel burning. The sense of pride that you will feel when living in such a household may seem like something subjective, however, it’s more than worth your effort and investment. You can do so by growing your own produce, and natural dwellers has plenty of tips for you to get started.
Self-sustainable
Another thing worth mentioning is the fact that sustainable home design allows you to become as independent as possible. For instance, by having your own well and water filter, you no longer depend on the municipal water supply. Once you invest in solar panels, you will be able to generate enough energy to run your household. Those who harvest rainwater can use this to wash their car, water their lawn and garden, as well as much, much more. Being self-sustainable is a thought that gives one an abundance of reassurance. In today’s world, this can be quite invaluable.
It’s healthier
The next thing worth considering is the impact of your home’s construction on your overall health. Sure, not a lot of people pay attention to what their beams are made of. However, quality construction timber is important for more than just structural integrity. First of all, timber is an eco-friendly material. Second, this timber can be treated or untreated, which makes a huge difference when it comes to the overall health of the household. The safety and stability of your home, as well as the health of its inhabitants, may depend on it.
Saving money
Probably the most important reason why so many people are going green is that it allows them to save vast quantities of money. First of all, by producing your own energy, you’re eliminating one of the biggest items on your utility bill. By making your home more energy-efficient, even without solar panels, you stand to save a small fortune. For instance, double glazing windows can save between $200 and $250 every year. By harvesting rainwater, you will lower your water bill. Moreover, by opting for low-energy appliances and low-flow fixtures you can make a world of difference in terms of reducing your water bill. All in all, any investment towards making your design more sustainable is the one that’s bound to pay off eventually.
There are no restrictions
The last thing that a lot of people are concerned with is the number of options. You see, there are some people who in the 21st century, still believe that there are some options that are unavailable to them just because they’ve opted for a green solution. Nowadays, every material has its eco-friendly alternative and the number of retailers, as well as suppliers, is at its all-time high. This means that regardless of what kind of visuals you want to go with your home, you can always find a green way to do it.
In conclusion
At the end of the day, you need to understand that when it comes to sustainability, there are no absolutes. No matter how green your home is at the moment, there’s always a way to make it greener. Also, there is no change towards eco-friendliness that is so insignificant that it won’t make a difference. In other words, regardless of how small the improvement or design trend may be, you still get to enjoy all of the above-listed five, to a certain degree.
