Project Green Resource

The Real Green is in the "L" Word

June 19, 2010 contributed by Olga G. Alvarez, ASID, IIDA, LEED-AP ID+C

The green movement seems to have taken control over the residential market. The LEED® for Homes rating is picking up steam and the numbers provide the proof on what seems to be its rapidly growing acceptance.

Considering that the LEED® for Homes rating was launched about two years ago, this is definitely one of the ratings experiencing approval. There’s approximately over 5,300 homes that have received LEED for Homes Certification and close to 24,000 that are registered. In comparison, there are about 5,100 LEED certified commercial projects and close to 28,000 in the pipeline which have been registered.

So why the growth in the L-Homes rating when the residential market is supposedly in such a disarray? What’s the importance of “living” (the L-word) in a green home?

In examining the LEED® for Homes rating, it seems that it’s more than homeowners becoming aware of the benefits that are linked to green dwellings. The objective is to build it by meeting all the prerequisites and following certain directives outlined by the USGBC. This rating process is not as document intensive as the commercial ratings and it entails more on-site inspections handled through a Green Rater and channeled through a LEED for Homes Provider who is the direct link to the USGBC.

You may have single-family or multi-family (if it’s not over 3-stories high) projects with two or more units (or a combination). The Mid-Rise multi-family program (from four to six-stories) is still underdevelopment as a pilot program. The L-Homes Eligibility Guidelines provide guidance on the process for different types of projects and it’s best to consult with a Provider early on to make sure the project can be certified.

Besides measuring performance in eight categories – innovation & design, location & linkages, sustainable sites, water efficiency, energy & atmosphere, materials & resources, indoor environmental quality and awareness & education, this rating provides many homeowners with an opportunity to market their energy-efficient residence and tout its benefits. It’s not just about being “green” but looking at the various possibilities that will save money, resources, and improve livability.

There are also tremendous opportunities nowadays in finding environmentally preferable products for new homes or “rehabs." This opens the door to opportunities for taking existing residential stock in older neighborhoods and revitalizing them. An owner must be willing to go through a substantial remodel that includes demolition to the bare walls and requires upgraded windows and HVAC equipment to get a home LEED certified (I’m presently involved in two such projects.) Yet to me, this is the true essence of green – reusing what’s already there.

The younger generation of today wants to live in neighborhoods where they don’t need a car to get around. (I have friends that live in several of the northeastern states and don’t own a car - not as easy in Florida.) It’s thinking about communities that are accessible by other means of transportation. It’s taking into account the principles of Smart Growth where density is not a dirty word and walk-ability is seen as a way to improve your health and enjoy the outdoors.

Green homes are better for the environment and for its occupants. Compared to a conventional home, a green home uses less energy, water, and natural resources and creates less waste. Green homes are designed to reduce their environmental impact on our planet and improve how we live. That’s the real green. ¦PGR¦

LEED for Homes from U.S. Green Building Council on Vimeo.

**Special thanks again to Ms. Alvarez for sharing her experience and knowledge with the green community. Ms. Alvarez is a leading green building consultant specializing in interior design. She is located in South Florida and can be contacted here...**