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Promote Energy and Resource Efficiency
Housing design that minimizes energy consumption, reduces construction
waste, and sustains building durability and utility over the long term
enhances housing affordability and resource sustainability. It is estimated
that, in the United States, a 25% reduction in energy costs to conserve
fossil fuels would also represent an 8% reduction in housing costs. Similarly,
a resource-efficient design that conserves construction materials can
reduce building construction costs by as much as 10%.
Energy efficiency design conserves fossil fuels and counters global
warming while ensuring user comfort. Energy efficient design and building
strategies include: the use of passive and active solar energy design
and equipment to heat and cool the building; minimizing the "building
envelope" (the exterior surface of the building, and its window and door
openings) to decrease heat losses and gains; and energy efficient and
environmentally safe appliances and equipment. "Airtight" construction
of the building envelope can be a strategy to conserve energy, but careful
consideration of all building materials, adhesives, paints, sealants and
finishes is essential to avoid the problem of indoor air pollution. Siting
and shaping buildings to maximize appropriate solar access, and providing
protection from potential damage of extremes of wind, temperature, and
water are more examples of resource-efficient building practices that
conserve non-renewable materials and products while ensuring building
utility. Natural resource consumption and construction waste can be reduced
through using modular components and specifying materials derived from
sustainable sources that are durable, contain recycled materials, and
are easily dismantled, recovered, and recycled. Effective design and construction
practices also can facilitate the rehabilitation and recycling of an entire
building to prolong its useful life. If it is necessary to dispose of
building materials and products, using materials that are reusable or
biodegradable, non-polluting, and recyclable supports environmental sustainability.
Lastly, water conservation has become increasingly important. Common means
of water conservation include ecologically sensitive landscape design,
equipment that minimizes water use, and the use of rain and gray water
recycling from sources such as clothes washers and showers for landscaping
and other non-drinking uses.
Link to resources
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