One of the attractions of the green movement is that it’s always on the cutting edge of new technologies. Some of the greatest minds in science, architecture, and design are devoted to coming up with innovative ways for all of us to live our lives more sustainably. Many of these technologies center on around our living spaces, since this is where we can have the greatest control over our resource consumption. The following new technologies in eco-friendly housing prove that being green and being innovative start at home.
Passive Homes
“Passive” houses are ultra low energy homes that are gaining popularity; there are approximately 15,000 worldwide, mostly in Germany and Scandinavia. People who live in passive houses generate a full supply of heat and hot water by harnessing the energy from the sun, their appliances, and even their own bodies. Passive houses use about 1/20th the heating energy of a conventional house of the same size, and, in Germany, they only cost 5 to 7 percent more to build than conventional houses. They operate on a ventilation system that allows warm air exiting the building to mingle with the cold air coming in, so that 90 percent of the heat is transferred. Although the building is extremely well insulated, it is not stuffy at all; there are plenty of windows and air goes through a HEPA filter before entering the rooms. But since most passive houses allow only 500 square feet per person, you’ll have to practice being a little more passive, since there’s not much room to move around.
Green Roofs
No, it has nothing to do with the color of house paint you buy. A green roof system is an extension of the existing roof that involves a high quality waterproofing and root repellant system, a drainage system, filter cloth, lightweight soil, and plants. More than simply providing added garden space, a green roof can actually offer several benefits to your home.
The added protection results in a longer material lifespan for your roof and decreased maintenance. Green roofs are estimated to last up to twice as long as conventional roofs. You’ll also be able to reduce your heating and cooling costs. Researchers in Canada found that a green roofing reduced heat gains by 95 percent and heat losses by 26 percent compared to a regular roof, depending on size. And for city dwellers who haven’t quite adjusted to the urban din, green roofs can insulate sound by absorbing sound waves produced by machinery, traffic, or airplanes. Plus, you’ll have a beautiful field full of flowers on top of your house.
