9. INSTALL HIGH R-VALUE INSULATION

Description: Insulation provides a continuous thermal barrier to minimize heat flow through the walls, ceiling and floor.The higher the R-value, the greater the material’s ability to insulate.

Benefits: Installing higher R-value insulation improves comfort, decreases demand for air conditioning and heating, saves money, and makes the home quieter.

10. SELECT ENERGY STAR APPLIANCES

Description: Refrigerators and freezers are among the largest users of electricity in most homes.They can account for up to 25% of household energy use. Energy Star appliances use 10-15% less energy and water than standard models.

Benefits: Energy Star refrigerators can save over 10% of the total annual electrical bill in a home. Check with the local utility company for rebate programs.

WATER

11. DESIGN WATER-EFFICIENT LANDSCAPES

Description: Low-water landscape designs (such as xeriscape) reduce water use by emphasizing native and/or drought tolerant plants, eliminating turf areas, and minimizing maintenance. Efficient irrigation systems, such as drip and micro irrigation, place the correct amount of water directly at the base of each plant, thus reducing water use and waste from overwatering.

Benefits:Water efficient landscape and irrigation systems help plant growth and overall health by eliminating overwatering or excessive drying.They also lower water bills and reduce impacts on water supply infrastructure.

12. INSTALL WATER-EFFICIENT TOILETS AND FIXTURES

Description: New toilets use 1.6 gallons per flush compared with old toilets that require 5-7 gallons per flush. Flow reducers fit into the aerator at the tip of the faucet and reduce the rate of water flow through the faucet. Low-flow showerheads replace standard showerheads.

Benefits: Low-flow toilets can save up to 22,000 gallons of water per year for a family of four. Flow reducers can cut water usage of faucets and showers by as much as 40% with little noticeable effect.

13. USE PERMEABLE PAVING MATERIALS

Description: Permeable paving allows stormwater to percolate into the soil.

Benefits: Permeable paving allows on-site percolation, thus reducing the volume of polluted water that flows into rivers or bays, while replenishing soil moisture and local aquifers. Additional benefits include reduction in irrigation requirements and a lower risk of flooding.

MATERIALS

14. USE 30% - 50% FLYASH IN CONCRETE

Description: Flyash is a byproduct of coal burning power plants and can be an inexpensive substitute for 15% - 40% of the Portland cement used in concrete.

Benefits: Flyash increases the strength and durability of the concrete. Using flyash also reduces the amount of cement needed, thereby decreasing the overall environmental impacts of cement production (mining and energy consumption).