I recently spent some time looking through the Green Home Guide website that I told you about last week. I can’t adequately tell you just how much information is available on this website; it really is a great resource if you’re new to the world of green living and design.
Today I started looking at a feature called the “Green Home Checklist.” It was pretty informative, but I ran into a few things that I really disagree with. I realize that there are some very exciting green innovations on the horizon, but many of these products simply aren’t feasible for the average homeowner at this time. So when people start preaching about how everyone should make the sacrifice to incorporate photovoltaic panels, etc., I tend to leave the conversation.
The article I was reading was very good until the author started preaching about how: “The home should generate some of its own energy with technologies like photovoltaic systems” and have a water-conserving irrigation system.
Now don’t get me wrong — I love green design. I think new technologies are very interesting and important, but I can’t stand it when people start preaching that green living is all about expensive, impractical gadgets. Green innovations certainly have a place in our lives, but they should not be our main criteria for judging a green lifestyle. Green living is about simple, clean, renewable, and healthy living.
I hope you’ll forgive my rantings, but I guess this is what a blog is for — ranting. Despite my disagreements, I really do recommend you review the article yourself. Check it Out!
I agree completely. The green movement will “bloom” when green products can be afforded by the average homeowner who has one income and a suburban full of kids. PV panels always get trumped by doctor visits and grocery bills.