Asheville ECO-GREEN Real Estate

Hi janeAnne - what an interesting idea this is!  I'm going to be checking back so I learn more about eco-building and the things that go into an 'eco-friendly home'.  Great idea for a challenge!

Ann

Wow janeAnne, I am not an building green expert but I have been around a lot. I am working on my list now!

If money were no object, I would have a windmill on every street and it would supply at least 30 percent of the energy for each house on the street.

If money were no object I would have the most expensive energy efficient appliances which means German or Swedish? lol

If money were no object I would have my house weatherized.

 

Wow,  You think BIG!  :)  I am working on mine this weekend...

Great Idea -- I am with Ann I have much to learn!  

Ann~ 

Just think about your "dream-kitchen"...or maybe that (organic?) garden watered by a rain-catchment system and you'll start imagining possibilities...and please do check back...this should be a livley challenge...and fun

Leslie~ 

I can hardly wait to see your list! I bet it will have orognci fabrics and low VOC paints in it somewhere...good things for Stagers to consider, eh?

Carole~

 I'm repeating your If money were no object list here because it is delicious. . .

•  I would have a windmill on every street and it would supply at least 30 percent of the energy for each house on the street.
• If money were no object I would have the most expensive energy efficient appliances which means German or Swedish? lol
• If money were no object I would have my house weatherized.

LOVE the concept you propose of giving back to an entire community...what is free, anyway...wind...I can see how this could be applied to solar power as well...I wonder if Brad Pitt and his Team are incorporating your idea into the Lower 9th Ward Project... 

Give me a couple more lists...you are on to something here!

 

Stephanie~ 

I can hardly wait to read what you come up with. I bet it will be an awesome list.I'll give you a hint right now what will be on my list...and it hasd to do with warm feet in the winter =)

janeAnne, Is this a REAL contest with prizes and all? OK, I'll play. What are the rules and where do I post?

Bill Roberts

If money were no object i would give it all away to the needed.

Thanks janeAnne, I had no idea that Brad and I had so much in common! What is Brad going to think when he gets this google alert? It's possible! And our clients who follow us - wow. They are going to know where we stand for sure.

Thank you for all you do janeAnne!

If money were no object... but taste was:

• Active Solar water heating, and power generation.
• Passive solar heating and cooling.
• Xeriscaping. 
  
• Intelligent house systems to reduce energy usage.
• Landscape design to reduce heating a cooling loads.

I know that there are more expensive technologies, but these could be incorporated into many current houses. 

Where should we submit our wish list...eco-all stars I'm assuming?

This is great...make sure to check out my list!!!

 

janeAnne,

The Govenor of Colorado is Going to Heat and Cool the Govenor's Mansion with Ground Water, The first Govenor's Mansion in the Nation to go GREEN.

Governor Ritter rocks and his heart is in the right place! http://www.colorado.gov/energy/greening/index.asp He is greening Colorado for sure.

Dena,

Along with Gov Ritter, Denver is Going Green, Thanks to Mayor Hickenlooper (We Rock in Colorado)

We are going to have a green initative in New Hampshire.  Cost seems to be a big factor -- so to be able to forget the $$$ is going to be a lot of fun!  What a great idea.

Jane Anne, I can see it now, Dena and Brad and you on a podium :-)

Yah, that's going to happen. 3C you're invited to take pictures of it when it happens.

I will be there with bells on :-)

You know how cities are wifi ing all over the place? Well they should be windmilling instead.  Really! 

Janneanne, this is a great post. Today I will drive thru where all the pink house are located in the 9th ward. I am hold open house in Arabi, LA. Another hard hit area. Brad Pitt has certainly put his money and time where is mouth is. He nows lives in New Orleans. He is an inspiration to us all.

It sounds like there are some FANTASTIC ideas brewing!!!

Colleen~

You are one of the most astute members of this community , at least in my opinion, in understanding the basic principles of sustainability- after-all...you kept us all going with your moderating skills for a very ling time! THX!  so...if you could have any home you wanted...no expenses spared...but only eco-freindly...I bet you would love almost $0 energy costs....let me know =)

Bill~

You asked...what are the rules and where do you post...

• USE THE COMMENT SECTION BELOW TO TELL US 5 elements you would include in your eco-friendly home...
• OR   simply add the-URL  to your post  in the comment section below . Please tag your-post (if you decide to do an entire post) "PINK" and ALSO add the URL in the comment section here

 

• PRIZES: No prizes...(not unless someone lobbies BOB to help us out with some points) just the good feeling of being in the "pink" as we race towards 2008...and maybe some good energy sent down the the Lower 9th Ward...

 

Robert~

Obviously you have much in common with Brad Pitt, as well. YAY...two good guys!
It makes sense to share the gifts we receive with others...Brad Pitt is insisting on eco-friendly homes...what would you like to see included in these homes? Possibly energy efficient appliances?

Dena~

Love your post on the subject...be sure to leave us a synopsis here as well as the link to the entire post...and THANK YOU for all you do...

Lane~ 

I am mightily impressed with your lsit...so much so that I am going to repeat it here...

If money were no object... but taste was:

• Active Solar water heating, and power generation.
• Passive solar heating and cooling.
• Xeriscaping. 
  
• Intelligent house systems to reduce energy usage.
• Landscape design to reduce heating a cooling loads.

Tell us what about windmills, though...that Carole mentioned....as opposed to solar power

Dane~

You asked...where do you post...

• Please just go ahead and USE THE COMMENT SECTION BELOW
• OR   simply add the-URL  to your post  in the comment section below . Please tag your-post (if you decide to do an entire post) "PINK" and ALSO add the URL in the comment section here

By the way....I find the philosophy of your company mighty intriguing..."The 2 Hounds Design + Home Staging philosophy is to create drama for the potential buyers to see how they could live if they bought your property."

I bet you will have some very attractive ideas to share!

Dena~ and Jane~ 

I had no idea that Colorado was advancing in the "green" direction at the Executive Level!, no less ...thanks for the heads-up...

janeAnne - I'm not a huge windmill in the neighborhood fan.  I don't want to live under one, and I know that they will have a heavy NIMBY effect (Not In My BackYard). 

On the other hand, active solar can be hidden in a house, no matter the style.  I have heard of some roofing materials now that incorporate solar photo-voltaic cells and are almost indistinguishable from standard roofing.  

Passive solar is an entire design philosophy, but things like sun-rooms and courtyards can be used to distribute air and light around the house.  Overhangs can block heat during the summer, but allow solar heating in the winter.

Xeriscaping to save water... and make for a lower maintenance level... obvious choice.  But, by using native plants, it can still be quite attractive.  The overall landscaping can use little things like trees that block solar heat gain in the yard during the summer, but allow it during the winter.  Blocking prevailing winds to allow the house to have a heat island is another option. 

And, since I am a tool guy, what could be better than tools and technology turning things off and on, as well as optimizing everything to run more efficiently.   

I've cleverly placed my summary within this URL, see if you can find it. http://activerain.com/blogsview/298680/We-won-the-pink  bet you can! te he he......

Here is mine.  

I think we have to go the windmill route here to have it make good sense but I could be wrong. All I know is six months out of the year sunshine is at a premium in NE OH

Jane Anne, been thinking a lot about this, and I think we could all get used to seeing windmills. I mean, we got used to telephone poles. Yes, newer housing communities limit them, but in reality, I live with them every day (the poles) and never even blink about it. And saving money and energy is such a good reason to learn to live with them.

Joan~ 

I am looking forward to seeing your post. I was also interested to read that there will be a "green initiative" in New Hampshire! That's exciting-news. Please keep us informed.

3C and DS~

You know what they say about "visualization"!!! I'm ready of you are ;-)

Frank~

Very exciting that you are right near the Pink Project. Please keep us informed with a first-hand account. ...and let us know what you would include in an eco-friendly home.

Lane~

I appreciate your knowledge and depth of knowledge about green-nifties. Feels to me that your comment above could be an entire post..."How Come Solar?"  you wrote, ". . .  active solar can be hidden in a house, no matter the style.  I have heard of some roofing materials now that incorporate solar photo-voltaic cells and are almost indistinguishable from standard roofing.  

Passive solar is an entire design philosophy, but things like sun-rooms and courtyards can be used to distribute air and light around the house.  Overhangs can block heat during the summer, but allow solar heating in the winter."

still....

Carole expressed concern that up there in Cleveland, 6 months of the year may be w/o sun...

any ideas about that?

Everyone~

Stephanie and Dena have placed their entries ..I will keep tract and make a list of all posts so that they are in one place...here is the start:

Dena

Stephanie "Here is mine.  "

In the meantime,

Please just go ahead and USE THE COMMENT SECTION BELOW

OR   simply add the-URL  to your post  in the comment section below . Please tag your-post (if you decide to do an entire post) "PINK" and ALSO add the URL in the comment section here

Carole~

Good point about getting used to seeing objects that supply us with power/services....like telephone poles....How about this one? Certain areas of the country could work well with small wind systems.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

####

janeAnne, I feel like a child just starting kindergarten.  Yes, I've seen 'An Inconvenient Truth" and we recycle just about everything possible, I use cloth bags at the market and we had Xeriscaping in our So. Calif. home  but I can't wait to learn all about building green.  I just found the info about "Ecobroker.  Is this a good way to learn the basics of building green? 

Everyone~

Bob has authorized special prizes for this In the PINK" Challenge!

1) Enter from 12/09/07  until 12/19/07.

2) Put your entry here in this COMMENT section...and/or do an entire post
and put the URL here in this  comment section.

3)  1,000 points for the winner, 500 for second, 300 for third............also, everyone that enters gets 200 (in addition to the automatic 200) for entering. ...

 

Please email janeAnne (me) if you can help judge the entries.

 

  janeAnne,  I like the picture you added.  :)

 

Wow ... this will be fun!!  If only I could spend like money's no object!

Ok ...

1. Solar panels to power the entire house with copper water pipes throughout the house to warm the house during the winter.
2. Eco-friendly, landscaping to help with keeping the house cool in the summer and warm in the winter with lots of native trees and plants - which will invite wildlife.
3. High energy efficient appliances in the kitchen, and hot water, A/C and Heating (if needed in LA)
4. Construction with eco-friendly materials, themo-triple pane windows, and I would hire a construction company that doesn't waste materials.
5. Since I love ponds with frogs and fish - a large koi pond with frogs to help control mosquitos - and enjoy while I relax in my all season sunroom.

I want this house!!  :)

Oooo....I like Rita's idea of a koi pond! I'll come back to keep checking what others come up with....if I could...anything to keep my house cool...anything to lower energy costs. Okay...I'm trying :)

If I could build a dream house in New Orleans it would include:

1) Solar power panel with batteries to store excess power

2) Water purification systems

3) A house on pylons that could move up with flood waters. The pylons should go down to bedrock

4) A home with emergency communication systems powered by the battery power

5) A home built with green materials that can survive off the grid for extened period of time.

Greg Cooper is VP of Marketing at

<a href="http://www.goldwasserteam.com">Goldwasser Austin Real Estate</a>.

<a href="http://www.goldwasserteam.com">Goldwasser Austin Real Estate</a>

Here is mine, and I am planning to build it myself someday.

1. Use building materials and systems to acheive a net zero energy home.
2. Rainwater collection system 
3. State of the art Energy star appliances in a dream kitchen.
4. Handheld automation system that controls mechanical systems, security and audio/video entertainment
5. And.. My wife wants radiant heat in the floors throughout the house.

 

 

 

 

• Electric energy source such as; solar, wind, geothermal or ocean/river current.  Which ever is most applicable.
• If the climate permits, an edible garden and possibly a green roof to provide food for the homeowner and community as well as cooling specific parts of the home.
• Passive cooling & heating.  Proper sun orientation to take best advantage of passive heating accompanied with adequate thermal mass.  Utilize passive cooling with a thoughtful floor plan.
• Sustainable and non-toxic materials used throughout home.  Proper air circulation to avoid excessive moisture and as many local building materials and furnishings as possible from renewable sources.
• Recycling of waste/trash.  Thoughtful storage of recyclable waste until it's properly disposed of and/or on site usage of waste.  Such as a compositor or greywater system.

          My "Green" Blog      Linked In      Myspace      Facebook      EcoBroker®

apparently you can leave a comment when you're not signed in?  yeah... how embarrassing. thanks

• Electric energy source such as; solar, wind, geothermal or ocean/river current.  Which ever is most applicable.
• If the climate permits, an edible garden and possibly a green roof to provide food for the homeowner and community as well as cooling specific parts of the home.
• Passive cooling & heating.  Proper sun orientation to take best advantage of passive heating accompanied with adequate thermal mass.  Utilize passive cooling with a thoughtful floor plan.
• Sustainable and non-toxic materials used throughout home.  Proper air circulation to avoid excessive moisture and as many local building materials and furnishings as possible from renewable sources.
• Recycling of waste/trash.  Thoughtful storage of recyclable waste until it's properly disposed of and/or on site usage of waste.  Such as a compositor or greywater system.

          My "Green" Blog      Linked In      Myspace      Facebook      EcoBroker®

So, I guess now I have to write a post to enter...  

Even Cleveland doesn't go 6 months without sun... it just feels that way.  I have family in the area, and I've been there every time of the year, and in all sorts of weather... there is always sun.  

But, the point is...

Look around your subdivision.  Think how radically the landscape would be changed if there were a windmill or two for EVERY HOUSE.  Next, think of the cost of the systems.  In addition to the power generation mechanics, there would be towers and all of the support stuff.  Apartment complex?  I don't even want to think about the disruption to the viewshed. 

I wouldn't say that people should think they could go off grid for their solar power, but rather use it to lower the demands on other generation.  And think about it... the sun is probably shining on the days that give you the highest electric bills... A/C isn't cheap. 

This is a great subject and contest. Our office just listed nine green homes here in Marin and we went through a training session on the homes - so much potential!

1)  Solar Panels which allow the home owner to enjoy the direct benefit of the solar energy and the savings when they are able to use the surplus solar credit during low solar energy seasons - this will be a constant reminder for the home owners and encourage them to continue saving energy

2). Low flow toilets where there are two low-flow water volume depending on the contents (nice way to put it)

3). Water conservation landscape to incorporate native plants and drought resistant plants

4). Extra thick insulation, low e double pane windows.

5). Green building matrial to imporve air quality

Sylvia Barry, Marin Realtor

www.FirstMarinHomes.com

Diane~

You asked about ECO education for real estate professionals.  As REALTOR® rin North Carolina, and obviously one who is intereted in the "eco-savvy"  community, you are lucky to be able to participate in the NCREC designated course offered for NC ECO certification. It is a 36 hour hands-on course approved by the North Carolina Real Estate Commission.  That 36 hour course   makes it clear that sustainable homes reflect attention to detail which ultimately results in a top notch product in high demand by residential property clients.

Stephanie~

I thought YOU would like the photo =)...How about creating an entire  Lower 9th Ward eco-village?...give me your ideas about THAT.

Rita~ 

I had no idea you liked frogs! Ribbbittt! RibIT!

Isn't it exciting, as a real estate professionals, to "imagineer" energy efficient and healthy living spaces? If you and I say "I WANT THIS!" -as you did in your comment above, then it's easy to understand how exciting the prospect is to our clients...

Sally~ 

I read your BLOG every day. Every day I find the creative masterpiece you shared with us and with the wider audiences. I just know that if you decided to create a home ($$$ no object) that included the concepts of sustainable innovation, that it would be a BEAUT!  You go Girl!

I posted my response to my blog because it's lengthly.  http://activerain.com/blogsview/303443/5-Things-for-Brad.  I really think Brad's got to be thinking of the home owners' future.  Green Building should proven and be marketable, not bizarre or cutting edge, this isn't a "test case" in some green laboratory.  This is a new start for real people. 

So I took my head out of the clouds, and asked "what would I really do, if $ were no object".  There are plenty of green techniques to use before we post up windmills and bio-digestors all over the place.  Please read my post and tell me what you think.

Greg~

good luck with the CHALLENGE!

As I read your post,  I could envision the project in New Orleans from your perspective and I felt inspired. Your plan moves one step further...almost to the overall vision of an eco-village. I'm repeating (just for good-measure)....

1) Solar power panel with batteries to store excess power

2) Water purification systems

3) A house on pylons that could move up with flood waters. The pylons should go down to bedrock

4) A home with emergency communication systems powered by the battery power

5) A home built with green materials that can survive off the grid for extended period of time

 

###

Okay, here is my post to enter this contest. I love a challenge!

Link to post: http://activerain.com/blogsview/303434/-Dreaming-A-Little

Brian~ 

I'm with your wife! Radiant floor heat! YES!...but the rest of your inclusions in your green-dream home make just as much sense...and they do NOT seem that expensive!!

Stephanie!

Oh! Totally. i agree...in fact...if it is OK with you......I'm adding a little more spice to the original post...check it out!

Evan~ 

You are the first to mention an edible garden and also the first to mention a green roof! BOTH of these elements intirgue me. So...a couple questions:  If you lived in New Orleans, for example...what would be in the edible garden?...and can you have a green roof in New Orleans given the extrmes of heat and rainfall?

Lane~ 

I appreciate your contribution to this conversation. Yo don't have to write a full post, but given your knowledge and energy for this subject...how about TWO?? One for yourself...and one for the folks int he Lower 9th Ward...=)

Thank you rain gods, er,um Bob!  Now let's make a difference!

Hi JaneAnne and everyone...

Follow my link to read my Pink Christmas Wish List! 

Have a reNEWable Year! 

janeAnne- I just wrote the full post for inclusion in the Pink Challenge.  Enjoy. 

my money is no object eco-house:

1.hydrofluorocarbon-free refrigerator

2. smart system - monitors found in every room of the house as an information window to use to control and manage energy appliances usage in the house as well as monitor security.

3. Living Wall biofilter

4. smog eating coatings on light emitting walls (yes, this is actually being developed in nanotech architecture)

5. self cleaning windows

Just as a bonus...a giant solar powered disco ball

Anne, I seriously substituted my Solar Hot Water heater with a Living wall. Love the idea.

I would install active solar panels and a tankless water heater and upgrade my appliances

I like the practical part of this contest. As in we have a tangible goal. Other contests that have rolled around the Rain were great, I just like the practicality of this one. As a group we are very powerful, we could and should use our power to promote change when we can. It's one thing to try to gain points it's another to say any number of real estate professionals worked together for a common goal and accomplished it.

I'd like to suggest that at the end of this contest we all individually send our posts to local newspapers, magazines or what ever. We aren't writing in a vacuum!

Sylvia~

THANKS for your entry in the $$$ no object eco-friendly December Challenge... 

I noticed that you ( and almost everyone so far)  would opt for solar panels if they could...very interesting...do I see a trend here?

Ben~

Thanks for your entry...a whole post on your BLOG.

As I read your post, I was struck with the integrity I found there...You wrote a bout authentic practices in sustainable innovation...as you said..."not just green washing"

You hit a very sensitive point for me there...a tendency to market what seems to be popular...use "green" for marketing purposes only...this could well be a discussion that needs further exploration as the trend toward "green' grows...

Bonnie~ 

I just read your full post! Loved the graphics and the idea you stressed...that dreaming makes dreams come true...Thanks for your entry, Bonnie...and good luck!

Mary~

Your post/entry ...an in-depth look at sustainable innovation that I will be coming back to read and re-read ...Thank you for the  time and energy you devote to making things better for all of us...and for telling us about your discoveries!

''

janeAnne,  :)  I like it!!!

The Eco Village sounds great!  However, my understanding is that the homes they are building actually cost about $200,000 to build but they are being subsidized somehow to be sold MUCH less than that.  An entire Eco Village....I bet they would need a lot more money to do that...

Brad Pitt and some others have put A LOT of money in the pot to help out the folks down there.  It is truly a GREAT thing to do. 

Maybe if the folks here in Houston come up with some good 99K ideas?  Then the only extra cost would be the solar maybe?  (There is a contest going on here to build a sustainable home for 99K.)  I wish I knew more behind the scenes stuff for the Pink Project.  I really admire all of these guys putting time and money in the project.

Wow - this one is interesting and will need some serious thought! Naturally Xeriscaping would be part of it, since I am NOT a fan of green lawns that waste water!!!!

I will get back to you with this post!!!!

Solar power for electricity, plus a few windmills.

But I would also have solar panels powering the hot water that runs in the floors to keep my feet warm. I hate cold floors.

But most importantly I would want these to be maintenance free. 

janeAnne, thanks for the kind words...

But remember, I still think an F-350 Diesel can be more ecologically responsible than a Prius...  And WAY more than a Chevy Volt.  

One day I might say why... 

Stephanie - I read with interest your post about adding solar - Keep in mind Solar Domestic Hot Water is likely the best payback. A system should be able to be added for about $6500, or less. The homeowner can take advantage of the full $2000 payback (govie tax credit.) If they implement this with an electric hot water heater it can be done efficiently and within the costs I gave. I am finding that Solar Thermal (or solar domestic hot water (SDHW) has the best payback over time. Talk to contractors in your area about it.

Mary,  I was referring to the New Orleans project.  The homes in the Pink project all have PV. (atleast the ones that the Houston architect designed) I think it would be nice to be able to build a sustainable home for 99K and then add solar.  OR, if they wanted to do more homes in N.O., they could build a 99K model and get donations for the solar as opposed to supplementing the homes by $100,000?  You know me, always thinking.  I can't wait for the day that a TRUE GREEN home WITH solar is affordable to everyone.  Just turning my brain thinking of ways to make it happen.  :)

Solar Hot Water Heaters are starting to catch on here.  I have even seen it used in town to 'pre-heat' the water that goes to a Tankless!  WOW!  The '08 Solar Tour will be an interesting one in Houston.  :)

jane-Anne...here is my entry Just Some Time To Smell The Flowers ( Think Pink )

This is waht i was supposed to do...right? This senioritis is getting the best of me!

Stephanie - you are right about Solar Hot Water as preheat taking off. Isn't that cool that the homes in the Pink project will all have PV! One great way to do it, that my company is implementing, is to put a small system on with a beefed up inverter. That way a year after they move in or put solar in they can beef up the system with more panels and take advantage of the credit again...Sssh..we don't want the legislators to hear that or they will make it a one time credit. Let's help the consumer gain the best advantage!

Mary,  I thought they took away the credit?

Stephanie~

While we wait for further entries into this fascinating contest...GREAT conversation! You mentioned, " (There is a contest going on here to build a sustainable home for 99K.)  I want to hear more about this. What comes to mind immediately is a 600 square foot cottage...but I am sure that more sq. ft. can be planned in at the $99K dollar figure....tell us more...

Ann~

I don't know which I want more...the self-cl;eaning windows you describe in your entry...or the "Just as a bonus...a giant solar powered disco ball " =)

Thanks for the charms this morning.

John~ 

Hi! and welcome to Active Rain and the ECO-All-Stars! I know you're from Delaware and a man of few words...but tell us more about the 5 elements you would incorporate in your home design...or maybe the design Brad Pitt will use for the Pink Project...if you 'd like. . .=)

Everyone~

Did you notice Dena's excellent point: As a group we are very powerful, we could and should use our power to promote change when we can. It's one thing to try to gain points it's another to say any number of real estate professionals worked together for a common goal and accomplished it.

I'd like to suggest that at the end of this contest we all individually send our posts to local newspapers, magazines or what ever. We aren't writing in a vacuum!

Hi janeAnne,

I wrote a post on the 99K competition.  It has to be atleast a 2/1 and under 1400 sq ft.  I know a couple of architects joining the competition and I am going to do an extensive post when the dealine nears.  Sometime in January.  I may even have her do a guest blog on my outside blog....

I'll try to get her to join AR and hop in the conversation.  :)  The website for the competition is www.99khouse.com

I agree with Dena's point..we are a very strong voice on AR and online in general.  We should take advantage of that every chance we get to help educate people on the benefits of Green and Renewables. 

Carole - I like your list also! Wind Generators on every corner! Now I am smiling!

I like the idea of windmills, but did you know that any extra energy produced by your windmill that you don't use HAS to go to your local utility company? At least here in Minnesota, this is law. And no, the utility gets your energy for free...they don't pay you for it.

Barbara-Jo & Bill~

Thee's still a week left to enter this CHALLENGE. But don't wait too long...my curiosity is getting the best of me =)

1) walk in steam shower.

2) solar !

3) kitchen's with bamboo cabinets and concrete counter-tops.

4) black bamboo floors.  (wow)

5) Angelina Jolie Kissing Booth. 

Here's my wish list: "Green" Eco-Friendly Building

Great idea for a contest!

Joni~

I am hopping over right-now to check out your post! Thanks for the link and good luck with this CHALLENGE. May you ever be in the PINK...and some day meet Brad Pitt =)

Susan~ 

I'm with you on the "cold floors" who needs cold floors...even in the worst snow storm and blizzard...not when you have radiant floor heat.

Lane~

OK...while we wait for the next batch of entries...tell us why...ya' think an F-350 Diesel can be more ecologically responsible than a Prius...  And WAY more than a Chevy Volt.  

I just got this card from Living Homes

 

Checkout the link and tell me if you think a version of this could be built for $99K...and if there are elements here  you would choose for your dream home...

 

Ok, I'll give it to you. 

Toyota Prius...  The lithium for the battery packs is mined in Canada, at one of the most ecologically destructive mines in the world.  From there it is flown to China for assembly into the battery packs.  I have heard that one of the reasons the battery packs are assembled in China is because of loose environmental regulations.  The battery controllers are assembled in the EU, and then all of it is sent to Japan for assembly into the car.  Then the car has to be shipped around the world.  Also, it still uses gasoline.  While it is reasonably efficient with the gasoline, it is still a net carbon producer.  

Chevy Volt...  Runs on electricity.  People have a tendency to forget that electricity is produced by coal, some natural gas, a little nuclear, and then some infinitesimally small amounts of wind, water and solar power.  The carbon footprint is actually worse than the Prius (bigger battery packs, and less efficient remote power generation).  Electric cars are basically remote polluters, not zero emissions vehicles. 

F-350 Diesel...  Can run on bio-diesel, which sequesters as much CO and CO2 as it emits.  Which means that the actual carbon footprint of the fuel being burned is neutral.  The vehicle is produced around the country (mine was built in KY, and shipped to Atlanta). 

See?  It isn't the stuff in front of everyone that makes a difference.  It is all of the little details.  I think that the same thing applies to power efficient homes.   Clean up the details and the picture looks pretty good.  I'm also not a believer in anthropomorphic global warming.  For me it is about saving money and reducing dependency on foreign energy. 

[side note] I think that if we seriously wanted to make some fuel efficient and low carbon emissions vehicles, they would be small diesel/electric hybrids (electric powertrain and on-board bio-diesel power generation).  Something the size of a Prius could get a real world 75mpg without using any technologies that aren't currently in mass market vehicles.  With some tweaking, that could easily go over 100mpg.  Swinging by McDonald's for a little grease could have a whole new meaning (bio-diesel can be made from used vegetable oil)

My list is posted at

http://activerain.com/blogsview/306298/My-Pink-Green-Building

 

Hi Jennifer - at this link for DSIRE you can check out the net metering laws in your state. Most states have passed net metering law in the past few years.  In Michigan the net excess is credited to the customers bill. After a 12- month billing cycle it is credited to the utility. It looks to me like Minnesota customers are paid for the excess. Check it out. Maybe this is something that was recently put into effect?

Stephanie - the credit for solar is good through 2008. Just today the senate did not pass the extension so we will have to see if they have something else up their sleeve. 

Hi Mary,  2 more questions.  :)

Can you explain the net metering stuff a little. :)

Also,  the credit for solar is different than stuff like windows?  I'm confused.  :)  I thought it was for purchases through '07.  Sorry, little slow today.

JaneAnne - love the link to the Living Homes. Wow! Are those ever cool! I just fell in love with something a design I never thought I would like! After touring through the home I find some awesome features incorporated. 99,000? I doubt it....What great ideas to incorporate and their website is very well done and showcases their product fantastically! Thanks for the link!

That's ok Stephanie -- the government does tend to confuse us!!!

The solar credits were extended some time ago through '08. Here's an article I googled from Green Energy Ohio that does a fairly decent job explaining. I can understand why you are confused. Many of the sites out there have not updated the extension. I had to really look into it when I started in the renewables to get my facts verified!

As for Net Metering - I probably should do a blog. Each state will have their own set of laws on the books. Some states allow a consumer to be paid for the energy that is generated back to the system. Others will "bank" the energy and give credit for what is used the following month. The DSIRE site has links to the laws for each state. My count is that 42 states plus the Virgin Islands have passed net metering laws.

Window/Doors/Energy Improvements - It looks like they still expire Dec 31, 2007, just around the corner. I will do some research and see if they have been extended. It looks like they have not.

I hope this helps?

Thanks Mary!  That helps...and I would love to see a post about net metering...  :)

Lane,  that is very interesting about the Diesel vs. hybrid.  How about the new Honda?  It says it emits only water vapor???  Do you know anything about that one.  I have thought about going down to the dealership just to learn more about it..

Here is my entry!

A Madison home so green it is actually "pink"

Hi Stephanie - I am glad that helped...I will get the net metering blog going! behave! Ma

Five isn't nearly enough things to blow money on, so I stuck with the building envelope for now.

And Stephanie, Honda's FCX is a fuel cell vehicle running on hydrogen. They have a pretty good website. It's not available generally, but as a test vehicle in southern California. 

Dave,  So I can't go test drive one?  :(  Just kidding..Thanks for letting me know. I'll check out the website.

Thanks again Mary!!!  Wow!  We are getting quite a few entries!

SUMMARY

If money were no object what 5 elements would you incorporate into your own home or one for Brad Pitt's Pionk Project?. ...what would you use and why?

• USE THE COMMENT SECTION BELOW TO TELL US 5elements you would include in your eco-friendly home...
• OR   simply add the-URL  to your post  in the comment section below . Please tag your-post (if you decide to do an entire post) "PINK" and ALSO add the URL in the comment section here

 

• PRIZES: the good feeling of being in the "pink" as we race towards 2008...and maybe some good energy sent down the the Lower 9th Ward...AND  1,000 points for the winner, 500 for second, 300 for third............also, everyone that enters gets 200 (in addition to the automatic 200) for entering. ...

Enter from 12/09/07  until 12/19/07..I need 3 judges please...

Need Inspiration?  Check out this Living Homes Tour 

 

Joni~ 

I have just visited your entry into this PINK Challenge...and it's up to your usual style! loved it!..As I looked at your graphic... I noticed the pergola...and began to envision not only colorful flowering baskets, but also baskets and pots of edibles.. ..

 

Good luck on your entry.

Jennifer!~I didn't have a clue that energy generated from windmills MUST go to the local utility...hmmmm...

Marcus~

Joseph~

Laura~

Thanks for entering this fun challenge...and Good Luck!

John B~

Tell us more about your choices and why you would choose them...=)

Dave R~

There you go...in your own quiet way..creating a whole new perspectiveon elements to include in a eco-dream home...Readers..check it out!  Now I am wondering if we should make that 20 elements
instead of 5 . . .(I'm smiling)

I'm a little late to this contest, but I will start working on my wishlist. Thanks.

Here is my entery

http://activerain.com/blogsview/307586/My-Pink-Dream-Home

 

Hear Is my first entry, I did not go into too much detail on the little things, focused more on the big idea; EcoQuadplexes! Know any big investors?

http://activerain.com/blogsview/307613/Hey-Brad-I-ve

janeAnne,

Here come my five favorites:

1. Solar photovoltaic system for power generation.
2. Desert landscaping/ xeriscape.
3. High-performance windows, like Alpen fiberglass products.
4. Energy-efficient appliances, a la Energy Star.
5. CFL, compact-fluorescent lamps, everywhere.

I'm confident Brad will get his project done.

 

 

janeAnne,  about the 20 elements...  :)  I could fill that up. 

As a matter of fact, I used Low VOC paint today in my bedroom.  Virtually NO ODOR.  FANTASTIC!!  Now if I could just figure out how I wired the light switch wrong.  :( 

I Loved Joni's ideas also.  That house is adorable!!

OK janeAnne, here is mine My Dream House

Bill Roberts

Stephanie.  IIRC the Honda is a concept.  There are a few Hydrogen Fuel Cell concepts out there, but the HFC cost is prohibitive right now...  $100k or more for the powerplant. 

To all who are curious about the reality of the Honda,

"American Honda plans to lease the FCX Clarity to a limited number of retail consumers in Southern California with the first deliveries taking place in summer 2008.

Full details of the lease program will be set closer to launch, but current plans call for a three-year lease term with a price of $600 per month, including maintenance and collision insurance. American Honda is also developing a service infrastructure that provides customers with the best balance of convenience and the highest quality of service. When the FCX Clarity requires periodic maintenance, customers will simply schedule a visit with their local Honda dealer. American Honda will transport the vehicle to their fuel cell service facility, located in the greater Los Angeles area, where all required work will be performed. At the completion of the work, the customer will pick up their car from the dealer."

Thanks Dave,  The $600 includes insurance also?  That's a heck of a deal!  Atleast it would be for Houston.  :)  I pay over $100 per month on car insurance for one car here. 

If Money Were No Object:

I'd install:

1: Composting Toilets.  I know this sounds gross.  But its the best idea ever!  Please try this experiment, or at leas try to imagine it: Fill a 1 gallon milk jug with water.  This represents all the H2O on Earth.  Now use a medine dropper to take out a single drop of water from the gallon jug.  This is how much potable water there is in the world.  Now, think about how many times you flush the toilet every day.  I probably do it around 10 times a day (yeah yeah I pee a lot).  Every time you take a dump, you are contaminating potable water!    Did you ever wonder why we don't poop and pee in un-drinkable water?  Composting toilets turn your poop and pee into clean, useful soil that can be dumped out in your garden.  This soil is actually safe to grow vegetables in, and if you are totally grossed out by this idea, here's a reality check: Central California Growers Are Using Treated Human Waste to Grow Your Vegetables.  Chinese, Venezuelan, Mexian, Korean, etc. Growers are Using RAW HUMAN WASTE to Grow Your Vegetables.  This is a fact, people! So you better get comfy cozy with that thought, cause every time you drink columbian coffee or eat a soy product, you are MOST LIKELY consuming veggies grown in doo doo, treated or untreated.  Why not control your water consumption while growing a wonderful veggie garden in organic compost fresh from your toidee?  Not only that, but composting toilets have a built in circulation system that effectively eliminate bad bathroom odors.  There's a little fan inside the toilet that sucks air in through the toilet seat.  Then this air is expelled out a small chimney that can be installed to ventilate on your rooftop, where smells diffuse almost instantly and you never detect doo-stank.  I grew up with one of these in my house.  My father is a committed conservationist and a hobby efficiency expert.  Everything I'm telling you is from personal experience.  Composting toilets rule!

Ok, now that i've made it perfectly clear that I love composting toilets I'll be brief on my other four top-picks:

2: green house

3: solar power and H20 heater

4: super energy efficient jaccuzi as seen in Living Homes tour

5:energy efficient appliances

Donna, you crack me up. Seriously, you have made a potty convert out of me.

Hi Janeanne;

Just got back from a family trip to Louisiana. Brad Pitt was definitely in the news down there and folks are excited about his vision.

But I guess I have to point out a big caveat, and that is that the city, state, and federal government are not repairing/building the levee system there to sustain a hit from Level 4 of 5 hurricane. There is a tremendous amount of denial about this, like such a storm will not hit New Orleans again. Remember, New Orleans was on the weak side of Katrina only took winds in the Category 3 level 111-130mph with a storm surge of about 9-12 feet. So to rebuild homes, especially in the lower 9th ward without taking this into account seems a bit foolish. Brad would better off building the homes on higher ground,although the real estate is more expensive than to have people go back to the most vulnerable area of the city.  

Love the Green Element Challenge and will post soon about it!

janeAnne, I think you should "edit" the main post to list all the entries. I went to the group and I couldn't easily find them because there are so many other posts. This is what other contests do. I want to read what everybody has to say.

Bill Roberts

EVERYONE ~ I am helping JaneAnne compile the list of entries for the Pink Challenge. Here are the names of contestants I have found. If you have written a blog / list in the comments for this contest and do not see your name on this list please post a comment below so you can be recognized and read!

Bill - How is this? The names that have links will link to the blog they have written. Those that don't have links you will find their list in the comment sections above! Enjoy the reading! 

Joan Mirantz  

Lane Bailey

Dena Stevens

Stephanie Edwards

Rita Gibbons

Greg Cooper

Brian Hoots

Evan T Little

Sylvia Barry

Brad Kolkman

Bonnie Westbrook

Mary Bigelow

Anne Lok

Susan Trombley

Marcus Valdez

Joseph Lang

Laura Warden

Jenny Persha

Dave Roberts

Brent Sainsbury

Michael Pulakamp

Esko Kiuru

Bill Roberts

Donna Shefcheck

Dana Caldwell

Bill & Barbara Jo

Dave Roberts

 

Great entries from all! If you have not entered yet you still have until December 19!!! 

Hi Mary,  THANKS for doing that!!!  Great idea!

Bill W-  I was told that all of the homes are/will be elevated.  I don't know much more than  that though.  :)  How, what materials, etc.  They did take in to consideration the flooding though. 

"You are the first to mention an edible garden and also the first to mention a green roof! BOTH of these elements intirgue me. So...a couple questions:  If you lived in New Orleans, for example...what would be in the edible garden?...and can you have a green roof in New Orleans given the extrmes of heat and rainfall?"

JanneAnne - I don't know if green roofs would work in New Orleans or what I would plant there.  Whichever food baring plants make the most sense for the climate and my needs, I suppose.  Contacting a green roof vendor would solve the big mystery about whether or not they would work in New Orleans.

Lane Bailey made some excellent points about vehicles.  I agree that a diesel electric hybrid is the best way to go at the moment.  The ability to use bio-fuels for longer trips and electric for the 99% of the time trips around town.  The Chevy Volt, NOT an electric car.  It's a hybrid, has no release date, but good thing GM has their hydrogen fuel cell out on the road for people to test.  Hydrogen is a distraction paid for by the US tax payers so oil interest can try and keep you hooked on their juice.  I asked a GM employee at the Anaheim EV23 show why is your fuel cell vehicle already in the hands of consumer testers but you don't even have an electric vehicle?  "We don't have good enough batteries yet", she answered.  "That's because you've sold off the technology to big oil and crushed the evidence out in the desert", I said.  Blank stare... No response.

Battery technology does need to be improved significantly and like Solar City and Tesla Motors have done, solar and vehicles need to be marketed together as well.  Just like our MLSs need to display home energy costs as well as sustainable design and product features.  We show HOA fees... Why wouldn't we use energy costs to help consumers in their decision making?

Bill R~

I am imagining a "Tree-House" of -sorts....lots of glass and light.....
5 stories tall...OK! What I want to know is...what 's it's FOOTPRINT?...
and oh yes...why have you chosen the elements you have chosen...

Esko~ 

Tell us why those elements are your favorites...And I feel as you do about Brad's Project...a litle concerned after waht Bill W. said, though.

Stephanie - you are most welcome! This will help the readers as well as the judges out! 

Mary~ 

THANKS so much for posting the list of entries and links ...so far...!!!

JaneAnne - UR welcome! Hopefully if I missed something those folks will step forward! Also, it makes a great concise list for the ECO AllStars so they can enjoy and comment on member's blogs! There are a ton of great suggestions! I have not made it through them all! Has anyone??? 

janeAnne, This is an Earth sheltered  house. Almost the entire Footprint is dug out of the hillside. The bottom floor will probably be in the neighborhood of 4000 square feet and the top floor will be about 2000 square feet.

That is the first element. Secondly, it utilizes concrete floors on all floors for mass which ameliorates temperature variations. Thirdly, there is radiant heat from hot water in the floor. Fourthly, the hot water is produced from a series of environment-friendly means as noted in my post. And fifthly (and sixthly), the glass wall is dual pane thermo glass with a photo-voltaic coating. Seventhly, it has an indoor water feature and garden to generate oxygen, with koi for insect control. Eighthly, There is a grey water reclamation system. Ninethly, there are wind generators. Of course there are many other environment friendly features built into this house. Some were alluded to and some weren't.

I want a house that can exist "off the grid" if necessary. And provide a very comfortable and secure life. It will probably have a hydrogen production facility if such is available when the house gets built. The house will probably be in a "fire area" and it needs to be impervious to fire.

Bill Roberts

My Dream House

Hi Janeanne:

Here is my green home entry.

Bill R,  I'm with you in wanting to be off the grid as much as possible!  Let us know when you find out more about how you will work around the fire issue.

Stephanie, Fire is usually spread to houses through the roof. Superheated air spontaneously combusts the burnable roof. Houses without burnable roofs survived our last wildfire even when the house on either side of them burned. Wood decks are another target for fire. Plus there is the issue of brush too close to the house. All of these things can be controlled and should be. Our losses on this last wildfire were way too great. Simple things could have saved many of them. I toured the back country after the fire. It was incredible what the fire fighters were able to accomplish. They did a great job. We just need to help.

Bill Roberts

I found this video that I thought I would share with everyone. It shows some of the reconstruction of the lower 9th in N.O.  Not with Brad Pitt's Development, but with normal, everyday folks acting as amazing stewards. 

Ninth Ward Homecoming

Stephanie, I posted something about being fire safe: Fire Safe In San Diego

I hope you like it.

Bill Roberts

Bill, that was a great post!  I hope everyone following this reads it.  Quite fascinating how some items that we may not have thought about could help in fires.

Bill W~ 

Thanks for entering this GREEN CHALLENGE ...Good luck with your entry...As I read-it, I also learned so much! Thanks for the information and resources you provided.

UPDATE ON ENTRIES:

Andrew Stone

Bill Westel green home entry.

 

FULL LIST OF ENTRIES  AS OF MIDNIGHT..6 hours left to enter!

Bill Westel  

Andrew Stone

Joan Mirantz  

Lane Bailey

Dena Stevens

Stephanie Edwards

Rita Gibbons

Greg Cooper

Brian Hoots

Evan T Little

Sylvia Barry

Brad Kolkman

Bonnie Westbrook

Mary Bigelow

Anne Lok

Susan Trombley

Marcus Valdez

Joseph Lang

Laura Warden

Jenny Persha

Dave Roberts

Brent Sainsbury

Michael Pulakamp

Esko Kiuru

Bill Roberts

Donna Shefcheck

Dana Caldwell

Bill & Barbara Jo

Dave Roberts 

 

I can't think of any good stuff for this contest, but Brad Pitt sure looks good.... Just thought I would mention it.

I can't think of any good stuff for this contest, but Brad Pitt sure looks good.... Just thought I would mention it.

I can't think of any good stuff for this contest, but Brad Pitt sure looks good.... Just thought I would mention it.

Am I too late to enter my post?  I have spent way to much time on this already!

Thanks for the encouragement.

1 Furnishings

Choose cabinetry and other furnishings made from recycled or reclaimed materials or wood certified by the Forest Stewardship Council. There are a number of products on the market, including countertops, tables, chairs and flooring, made from a wide range of recycled and reclaimed materials. Select compact furniture that incorporates storage and consider reused, salvaged or antique furniture.  This would allow us not cut any  more trees and reduce the waste that may end up in our landfills

2 Appliances

Choose high-efficiency water heaters, low-flow toilets and showerheads, faucet aerators, and energy- and water-efficient appliances. Consider using bulk-product dispensers for body-care products. This would help reduce the overall total water waste within our home.

3 Using Public Transport

Usage of Public transport for your daily travel will not only save a lot of fuel but also reduce the CO2 emissions. For example, if 50 employees of a company drive to work by car - the fuel these 50 or so cars consume will be so enormous than what a public transport say bus/metro/train will need. Also, in places which have very poor public transport - the ideal case would be to consider car-pooling or alternative fuel vehicles.

4 Clean green

Stop buying household cleaners that are potentially toxic to both you and the environment. Use alcohol instead of toxic butyl cellosolve, commonly found in carpet cleaner and some window cleaners as a solvent; coconut or other plant oils rather than petroleum in detergents; and plant-oil disinfectants such as eucalyptus, rosemary or sage rather than triclosan, an antifungal agent found in soaps and deodorant. Or, skip buying altogether and make your own cleaning products. I would use simple ingredients such as plain soap, water, baking soda (sodium bicarbonate), vinegar, washing soda (sodium carbonate), lemon juice and borax and save money at the same time

5 Landscape

Plant more trees and scrubs to help produce more oxygen. Reuse any unwanted scrubs and trees. Make mulch or recycle them to parks or neighborshoods that could use more landscaping. I would use more recycled mulch, made from old tires.  This would require fewer replacements over time.

 

 

 

CHALLENGE IS ENDED..It's NOON... 

Let's see what the JUDGES have to say about these entries...OH! and Look for winners TOMORROW

ENTRIES:

http://activerain.com/blogsview/312135/My-Amador-County-Green

Joel and Teresa Bennett (see above in the comment section)

Georgina Hunter

Bill Westel  

Andrew Stone

Joan Mirantz  

Lane Bailey

Dena Stevens

Stephanie Edwards

Rita Gibbons

Greg Cooper

Brian Hoots

Evan T Little

Sylvia Barry

Brad Kolkman

Bonnie Westbrook

Mary Bigelow

Anne Lok

Susan Trombley

Marcus Valdez

Joseph Lang

Laura Warden

Jenny Persha

Dave Roberts

Brent Sainsbury

Michael Pulakamp

Esko Kiuru

Bill Roberts

Donna Shefcheck

Dana Caldwell

Bill & Barbara Jo

Dave Roberts 

 

 

Good Luck to All...

Can I jump in here janeAnne? I know this started off as just an e-mail between you and I, but it has evolved into something wonderful! This has been great fun, even if it was my idea. We have some many creative, talented people here on A.R. What a difference we ARE making in the world we live in. This has been an awesome experience as well as a terrific contest.

Thank you Bob!

JaneAnne,

Thanks for putting this together. I decided to write anyway.. I know the contest is over. Good luck to everyone! Here's my post:

http://activerain.com/blogsview/312623/Going-Green-and-Pink

~Emily

The San Diego Real Estate Expert

Emily~ 

I read your post and enjoyed your contribution. Thanks for sharing your thoughts on this subject.

Everyone!

WINNERS WILL BE ANNOUNCED TOMORROW FIRDAY...
CHECK BACK ...here

and in the next post

I can't wait to hear who the winners are! It was great to hear from so many new faces in our group! I have to say all the entries were worthy of winning. It was interesting to hear a variety of elements but all rang the same bell....energy efficiency and the environment are VERY important! Thanks Dena for inspiring this...thanks JaneAnne for the challenge...and thanks Brad Pitt for giving this the attention it deserves!

HAppy reNEWable Year!

Mary~ 

Thanks for helping to judge this Challenge...It was a super effort on the part of the participants, and a super challenge on the part of the judges, too...everyone's entry was so amazing!

AND THE WINNERS ARE!!!. . .Check HERE!

 

JaneAnne-  You are most welcome! Yes, a great challenge and congrats to all the winners! All the participants get a gold star and a green thumbs up in my book! What an exciting, interesting, knowledgable group of people we have here! Imagine how great it will be in 2008 as we bring these minds and ideas together!!! 

  

I love Brad Pitt. It's a wonderful thing he is doing.