 |
Habitat’s Impact on the Environment
Habitat for Humanity Greater San Francisco’s commitment to the community goes beyond building homes. It also supports a sustainable environment for families and the future. HIDDEN CULPRITOver the last decade, there has been a growing consciousness about the built environment’s impact on climate change and health. In fact, experts have cited buildings as the single largest contributor to global warming. The shift to green-building has steadily gained ground, with new approaches to both what and how we build. That means reducing waste, using more energy-efficient and earth-friendly materials, and providing healthier and safer indoor environments. GREEN FROM THE STARTHabitat constructs homes with an eye towards reducing the overall cost of ownership while creating a healthier environment for partner families—making homes more energy efficient and reducing toxic construction materials. By partnering with organizations like Global Green USA, GRID Alternatives, and PG&E, Habitat Greater San Francisco is able to build green without transferring costs to Habitat families—in some cases they are even able to save more! WHY BUILD GREEN?It’s healthy. Habitat’s use of non-toxic materials is especially important in protecting children from respiratory and other diseases. It’s sustainable. Habitat incorporates a concise plan for reclaiming and recycling leftover materials, minimizing the use of natural resources, and reducing the impact on the land. It’s affordable. Solar paneling—one of many green building practices at Habitat Greater San Francisco—saves homeowners up to $30 per month on their electricity bills. This allows families to invest more in health care or other necessities. Other Habitat construction practices help reduce homeowners’ energy and water utility bills, as well as ongoing maintenance and replacement costs due to more durable materials. Read on about the 4E's:
|
|
