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 Green
Building Programs
Many builders are now offering more environmentally sensitive (Green)
homes. These programs give builders the opportunity to have a positive
effect on the health of the environment in the long run, but they
also provide a more immediate affect: the opportunity for builders
and homeowners to work together to create a very wildlife friendly
landscape.
It is a common misconception, even among some builders, that "green"
building is only concerned with energy efficiency. However, to achieve
certification in most Green building programs, builders must earn
points for fulfilling requirements in various environmental categories
including water conservation, site preparation, indoor air quality
(health), material selection and other factors. Any programs that
cut down on wasted water and energy are going to improve things
for humans and wildlife, but these changes are not immediate.
In some programs, however, many of the "other factors"
involve changes to a landscape that result in a very wildlife friendly
habitat. In fact, some programs specifically give points for creating
or preserving wildlife habitat. Other programs give points for items
such as Waterwise landscaping, native plant choices, Integrated
Pest Management and limited turf areas - all factors that help contribute
to a landscape that is beneficial to local wildlife. How much wildlife
benefit a program provides varies greatly from program to program.
If you are having a new home built, please consider the option of
building Green.
Resources for More Information About Green Building Programs
MyFlorida Green
Building -General information about green building programs
in Florida
Florida
Solar Energy Center Green Standards - Green standards go beyond
just energy efficiency and attempt to rate a building effort with
regard to the total environmental stewardship of a project.
Florida
Green Building Coalition Green Home Standards - The FGBC Green
Home Standards indicate the criteria by which a Florida home, new
or existing, can be designated green. Certifying Agents can guide
designers, builders or homebuyers through the process of qualifying
and  documenting
green homes. Search with your zip code under Find Green, Professional
Services, Home Builder.
U.S. Green Building Council
- Information about LEED certification
National Green Building Program
- First published in 2005, the NAHB Model Green Home Building Guidelines
were written by a group of builders, researchers, environmental
experts, and designers to provide guidance for builders engaged
in or interested in green building products and practices for residential
design, development, and construction.
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