Wise resource use for future generations

Conventional building construction and operation consumes large quantities of wood, water, metals, fossil fuels and other natural resources. Even though the majority of the materials used to build a home are put to good use, vast quantities of resources are wasted. In fact, building an average 2,000-sq. ft. house produces about 7,000 pounds of waste.

Much of this waste is avoidable. Careful management of the construction process makes a big difference. There are also many well-established homebuilding practices that help protect natural resources. For example, advanced framing techniques can substantially reduce lumber requirements without compromising structural integrity. Using engineered lumber and wood products certified by the Forest Stewardship Council can help protect old-growth forests.

There are many effective building strategies that conserve natural resources, as well as provide benefits such as cost savings. These include using durable products such as roofing materials with 40- or 50-year warranties, and specifying recycled-content products that divert waste from landfills. Recycled-content decking, reclaimed lumber and other products put waste to good use, while providing quality and durability that often exceed conventional materials. For example, decking materials made of recycled plastic mixed with wood waste fibers can last up to five times longer than wood decking, and never needs to be treated or painted.

Examples:

• Reuse/recycling of C&D (construction & demolition) waste
• High-volume recycled flyash in concrete (min. 25%)
• Reclaimed lumber, flooring, millwork, and other reused or salvaged materials
• FSC-Certified wood, engineered lumber, Advanced Framing techniques
• Recycled-content decking, ceramic tiles, glass tiles or counters, carpet, etc.
• Rapidly renewable flooring: cork, linoleum, bamboo, natural fiber carpet