From Guest Blogger Tina Samuels: Building More Green Apartments

Going green is a huge movement around the world.

As climate change becomes ever more apparent, people want to do their part to help the planet. Humans create a large eco-footprint with all of their activities.

Homes are one of the largest offenders, even though most people aren’t aware of just how much of an impact their living quarters have on the environment. This is one reason that green building is becoming more popular around the world.

Europe is the leader with green apartments, but the United States is beginning to push forward, more so every year, with green building.

Growing Project

While green apartment building hasn’t been as popular in the U.S. as abroad, this is due to the misunderstanding of the benefits of building green.

There are quite a few certification programs and incentives for green apartment contractors. Not all of the programs are well known in the contracting community, which could be due to the government not making a large enough effort in advertising.

Without the information being presented in a clear manner, contractors might think they must bear the brunt of the cost for going green.

Costly Materials

Some of the materials associated with building green apartments are expensive, so some property owners/landlords may balk at going down that road.

Certain types of renewable resources, like bamboo flooring, can be very expensive. This depends on the manufacturer, imports, and certification (green). Cost reduction plans or incentives can offset this expense. Not all green material are expensive, some are downright cheap.

Recycled materials, such as reclaimed wood and decorative items can be pennies on the dollar compared to new product. There are companies that scrounge demolition sites for such materials and then resell them.

Keeping To Code

Even when materials aren’t a concern, the thought of trying to learn new codes to follow can deter contractors from going green. They believe that the new ways aren’t as good as the old or just aren’t interested in learning new codes.

What most people don’t know is that today, almost all building codes are incorporating ‘green’ measures. Updated efficiency codes, along with other regulations, have moved apartment building much closer to going green than ever before.

Better Living

Green apartment buildings are better buildings, according to some contractors.

When green materials are used and all regulations followed, buildings last longer, have less mildew, and are easier to take care of. Residents are happier as there is reduced noise and odor between apartments.

Residents Going Green

Apartment dwellers can help the green movement by renting apartments in buildings that are certified as green or eco-friendly. By spending their dollars on green homes, they’re voting with their pockets.

For those that can’t find a green apartment build, these residents can do their best to be green. They can ask their landlords to work on adding green measures – such as high efficiency appliances or heating/cooling systems, starting community gardens in courtyards or on roofs, and asking about installation of rainwater recycling systems.

Only by voicing concerns can renters reach out to their landlords.

If they wish, renters can start their own green living organization in their apartment building and work with their landlord to put the improvements in place.

About the Author: Tina Samuels writes on double strollers, the environment, home improvement, and health.