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Living Green

By
Real Estate Agent with Halstead Property, LLC

While new developments in Manhattan are becoming more environmentally conscious, there is a new "green" architectural beauty, which will be home to 251 condominium residences with expected occupancy in 2008. Designed by Pelli, the green building will utilize natural and environmentally safe building materials throughout. From eco friendly paints, pesticide free rooftop gardens to the custom bamboo cabinets and wood flooring that was harvested in accordance with the Forest Stewarship Council.

Of course, this is just one new development. No matter where you purchase your new home in Manhattan or anywhere else in the country, you can still live "green."

For instance, if you're renovating think about using natural and environmentally safe materials.

According to Michelle A. Roberts, founder and Creator of Ecohealth Homes Inspired By Caroline McKennasm here are 7 Ecohealth home principles:

 

Use materials that can have a healthy impact on your family and the planet by using woods from a supplier who can verify that the original trees came from an ecologically sustainable forest managed under the Forest Stewardship Council guidelines.

Use only "green" paint and other finishing materials that have low or non (VOCs) volatile organic compounds. Paints and sealants should not contain formaldehyde.

Purchase furniture that is manufactured with Non-Added Formaldehyde Materials and Non-Toxic Finishes.

Use rapidly renewable flooring products such as bamboo or linoleum. Yet expert Michelle A. Roberts says "USA grown hardwood flooring is the real green floor." 

Appliances such as dishwashers and refrigerators should be energy-sufficient with the EnergyStarTM rating.

When cleaning your home, use non-toxic and biodegradable cleaning projects that don't endanger the environment.

When it comes to the size of your home, no matter how many "green" elements are used in your home, a 5,000 Sq. Ft. home will consume more natural resources than a smaller green home as it requires more lighting, heating and air conditioning.

Windows and skylights should be used to bring daylight into your home. Windows and exterior doors should have EnergyStarTM ratings.

If used, insulation should be non-toxic materials derived from cotton or soybean.

More environmentally safe resources can be found at the National Center for Healthy Housing. You can also read about living green at http://www.nrdc.org/greenliving/ . 

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