Hot in Gainesville but cool in Brytan!

Summertime is upon us! Hot, humid days punctuated by thunderstorms seems to be the daily forecast during the months of July and August. Along with the higher temperatures, many of us are seeing higher utility bills. Homes in Brytan have utility bills significantly below most homes in the area. These LEED-H certified homes are built to reduce energy demands and to provide a comfortable living environment. You should check out the homes and see how the insulation and other features make Brytan a "cool" place to live!

Green Living...how do you know you are doing your part?

I have yet to meet someone who is against the principles of green living and sustainability. People generally seem to want to do "their part" towards protecting our environment, whether it is picking up trash, turning off lights, turning up the thermostat and recycling cans and plastic bottles. The one point that is often made to me when talking about "green homes" is the fact that it really depends on the persons living in the house and their habits. Well, I guess the answer to that question is "yes" and "no." When people make the decision to purchase a LEED-H certified home, they are paying a bit more because they want the house itself to have an impact on the environment. LEED-H homes are built recycling materials, separating waste and using less toxic or non-toxic products. Those homes are more "green" just by virtue of how they were constructed. The "no" component comes about because of the behaviors and habits of the people that live in the homes. How do you know how "green" your lifestyle is?

How do you know when you are doing things that lower electrical consumption or decrease water usage? The lifestyle habits are a large component of truly being green.

Stay tuned as more information on understanding the impacts of your lifestyle habits on energy, water and air.