Why Build Green? by Ron Jones
(excerpted from Building Edge Magazine, October 2004)
As a homebuilder, my business has thrived for over 25 years serving a growing majority of consumers who are willing to spend a premium on products and services they perceive to be socially and environmentally responsible.
But the average home buyer who gives a nod to the environment may not know exactly what lifestyle choices staying friendly to the environment might entail. They generally don't know the most resource and energy efficient alternatives to buy, so educating the customer about the consequences of their material choices and energy-use decisions becomes a key part of the sales process.
A Concrete Example
The Not So Big Showhouse was conceived by architect Sarah Susanka, whose best-selling book The Not So Big House introduced a "build better, not bigger" approach to home design. According to Susanka, "builders and consumers are realizing that by shrinking a building's footprint with better design they can put the savings into details that are high-quality, energy-efficient and healthy."
Homebuyers are sitting up and taking notice of Sarah Susanka because she's provided a concrete example of how to merge quality design and sustainable building practice in a package that not only provides owners with the sense of home they crave in a house, but also has excellent resale value.
Green Building Resources
Builders wishing to commit themselves to providing the best quality homes in today's marketplace will have to immerse themselves and their crew in industry knowledge. They need to learn what works, what doesn't, and have a sufficient grasp on green building issues to discuss them with discerning customers. Here are some resources to get you started: