FreshEco info, tips, experts and picks from HowYouEco

Use a LEED Accredited Professional for building improvements or building a new home. LEED is an acronym for “Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design.” Building

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Michelle Kaufmann, founder and chairman of Michelle Kaufmann Designs, “No one should ever feel that it’s too expensive, too complicated, or just too difficult to go green. That’s why my mission is to make thoughtful, sustainable design more accessible and to make is easier for people to live greener lifestyles.” More from Michelle »

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Vetrazzo: Takes discarded glass like decommissioned traffic lights, windshields, used bottles and plate More »

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Mythic: Non-toxic, ultra low odor paint that provides the durability and coverage you expect from a More »

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GreenFiber: Manufacturer of natural fiber insulation, fire and sound products. Products: Deliver high-efficiency More »

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Greywater Guerrillas: Greywater Guerrillas are a collaborative group of educators, designers, builders, and artists More »

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U.S. Green Building Council: Non-profit community of leaders working to make green buildings accessible to everyone within a generation. More »

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GreenerBuildings: Resource for environmentally responsible building development is a free, web-based resource to help companies of all sizes and sectors understand and address building design, construction, and More »

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How are you building it Eco?

Green Book Picks from HowYouEco:

Build responsibly, reduce waste, and help preserve the environment. A step-by-step guide by Eric Corey Freed to every facet of this Earth-friendly method of construction. Building a home—even a green home—uses plenty of resources and energy. Hands-on book shows you how to build or remodel conscientiously, whether your dream home is a simple remodel or a brand-new multimillion-dollar mansion.

Green Building & Remodeling For Dummies

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Eric Corey Freed believes that if he builds it green-they will come. We chatted about the inevitability of eco-friendly building design and a new 100-year plan.

How do you eco?

As architects, we design green homes for people around the country. All of our projects are green. We force it on all of our clients! I get to travel around the country and talk to people about this work and show them how to do it themselves.

As consultants, I get to work with all types of companies to find the sustainable opportunities in their work. Whether this is for a Fortune 500 company, product manufacturer or a real estate developer.

And as members of the community, we are involved in many worthwhile causes and organizations. I sit on the boards of several non-profits and the advisory boards of over a dozen other companies. I do this because it is fun – but it is also crucially important.

And finally, in my personal life, I’m your typical greenie. Organic food, non-toxic cleaning products, walk to work, carbon neutral hybrid car, graywater toilet, blah blah blah. But that stuff just makes sense.

Why did you go eco?

You ask as if I had a choice!

Buildings are the most environmentally destructive industry, producing half of our carbon emissions and consuming 40 percent of our energy and materials. How can I, as an architect, let this continue?

Simply because we have been building this way for the last hundred years does not justify why it can continue. Things must change.

What’s your favorite eco tip?

Stop talking about it and do something. Think big. Get friends involved. Be the change you wish to see in the world.

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• Green Building & Remodeling For Dummies