Why Go Green?

There are as many reasons to “go green” as there are people on the planet, but the most urgent reason to go green is because of supply and demand. Our resources are limited and we are using them up more quickly than ever. If we want future generations to enjoy the same standard of living that we have experienced, it is time to take action.

Green building is a great place to start. Buildings consume 14% of potable water, 40% of raw materials, and 39% of the energy in the United States. That’s 15 trillion gallons of water and 3 billion tons of raw materials each year. If you remain unconvinced here are some other reasons to go green.

THE ENVIRONMENT

Implementing green practices when you build your new home, or update your current home will reduce waste, conserve natural resources, improve both air and water quality, and protect ecosystems and biodiversity.

THE SAVINGS

If you want to stretch your dollar further implementing green systems and materials will reduce your energy consumption and, by extension, your energy bills. It will also increase the value of your home and decrease marketing time, which will make your dollar go further for longer.

YOUR HEALTH

Living green isn’t just good for the environment, it’s good for YOU! Residing in a home that utilizes green practices and technology will enhance your quality of life by improving air and water quality and by reducing noise and pollution.

Ideas for Going Green

With today’s technology it is getting easier to go green every day. If you are building a home you can choose a new home that features solar power, or utilize a builder who is energy star certified. Or you can simply choose to update your current real estate and increase its value by making it more energy efficient. Everything you do to increase the energy efficiency of your home will add value to the property as well as quality to your life.

There are several programs and grants available to reward those who take steps to becoming more energy efficient as well.

• Utah Home Performance with Energy Star
• Utah’s Weatherization Program -
• Energy Smart Loan – Up to $50,000 in low interest loans to make energy improvements to your home.