Posts From August, 2021

Building During a Water Crisis

Building During a Water Crisis
The United States continues to deal with water scarcity and shortages across the country, affecting homeowners and builders. Sustainable building practices have predominantly been focused on energy efficiency to reduce household carbon footprints and financial burdens, however, with the ongoing drought in the US and the increased demand for housing, the need for water-efficient homes is necessary for the future of the industry. As city populations increase, builders, developers, and politicians are faced with the significant challenge of supplying millions of people with potable water. Dry regions such as the West and Southwest parts of the US are struggling as more people migrate to already overpopulated cities with further depleting water sources. Builders are having trouble finding water reliable areas to build which in turn adds to the increased housing demand. State and federal governments in these areas are strategizing how to distribute and protect major water... read more
 

Congratulations, 2021 Housing Innovation Award Winners!

DOE’s Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy has announced the winners of its 2021 Housing Innovation Awards. This recognition distinguishes the leading home builders across the country constructing Zero Energy Ready Homes, the federal government’s most rigorous guidelines for new residential construction. Grand winners in each of the award categories listed below will be announced during the Housing Innovation Awards ceremony on September 14th, at the Energy & Environmental Building Alliance High Performance Home Summit.

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How First-Time Homeowners Can Create a Sustainable Home

TEAM ZERO Blog

As more alarming studies surrounding climate change come out, scientists are recommending that people take real action to prevent the disasters of global warming. A great way for individuals to start is by rethinking eco-friendly housing practices. First-time homeowners should take this into consideration when making their move. There are a variety of ways first-time homeowners can create a more sustainable home for the future and by using these tips, you can prepare your home with environmental sustainability in mind. 

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How Urban Planners Integrate Alternative Energy Into Architecture

by Amanda Winstead

Even as sustainability sits at the forefront of modern architectural trends, developing alternative energy solutions isn’t without its challenges. For example, not every city is ideally situated for harnessing solar power due to atmospheric conditions that limit annual sunshine. The good news is that solar energy is just one of the various forms of alternative energy that can be utilized by urban planners in sustainable building designs.  

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