The American Society of Interior Designers Foundation and the U.S. Green Building Council launched the nation’s first green residential remodeling guidelines.
The REGREEN Guidelines provide resources and tools to make home remodeling projects more environmentally friendly and energy efficient. The guidelines are organized into the 10 most common remodeling projects.
“Consumers overwhelmingly want greener homes, and the REGREEN Guidelines will help by showing them how,” Michelle Moore, senior vice president of the U.S. Green Building Council, said in a public statement. “The REGREEN Guidelines empower people with practical information about how to green projects ranging from kitchen and bath renovations to deep energy upgrades.”
The REGREEN guidelines include the major elements of any green renovation project, such as the site of the home, water efficiency, materials and resources, and indoor environmental quality.
“You can start greening your home without spending a lot of money just by getting informed,” Moore said. “Weatherization projects can save energy and lower your utility bills, which also reduce your Carbon footprint. Similarly, choosing low-VOC paints, flooring, and adhesives eliminates bad-smelling toxins and creates a healthier home.”
To access the guidelines visit www.regreenprogram.org or www.thegreenhomeguide.org.
— REALTOR magazine online and American Society of Interior Designers