GREEN REMODEL SOLUTIONS
Seven steps to help you lighten your eco-footprint
Living-space improvements can be a rewarding form of hard work. But with that comes some hazards. Whether a major remodel or tweaking, consider creating a home that is better for the environment, local wildlife and for your health. Here are suggestions from the Florida Green Building Coalition and a few island experts to get you started:
BREATHE SAFELY
Air impacts our health. Unfortunately, paint and carpeting can contain dangerous airborne chemicals. Interior designer and green remodeling enthusiast Kathy McCabe recommends paint labeled Low VOC or Zero VOC. These volatile organic compounds are linked to health issues. Some cabinetry also contains VOCs, so look for green-certified brands with natural materials. Every-day cleaning products may contain harsh ingredients, so check the EPA’s Safer Choice website or the Environmental Working Group’s easy online search tool.
WATER: A LIMITED RESOURCE
Florida’s drought is an acute reminder that just 1 percent of the earth's water is for drinking. It’s easy and affordable to install low-flow showerheads and faucets (look for clearly labeled products). Easily installed faucet aerators also regulate and slow water flow. EPA Watersense-certified toilets are smart, as are Energy Star-certified appliances that use up to 50 percent less water. Also cover the pool to minimize evaporation, install rain sensors on irrigation systems and select native plants that need less watering.
LESS ENERGY, MORE SAVINGS
Energy Star-qualified products exceed federal standards and are up to 75 percent more efficient. Energy Star rates ceiling fans, kitchen appliances, hot-water heaters and lightbulbs. Compact fluorescent or LED bulbs last 10 times long er and
produce 75 percent less heat, reducing home cooling costs. To minimize airconditioning usage, Kathy McCabe recommends airtight doors and windows, seal-tight house insulation and light outdoor paints to shade and to reduce heat absorption. “I painted my roof white and installed shades on my windows and the energy savings were apparent almost immediately,” she says.
FLORIDA: LAND OF SUNSHINE
Florida ranks third for rooftop solar potential but 12th for installation, according to the Solar Energy Industries Association. Yet panels are far cheaper now, tax credits and rebates to soften the impact. John McCabe, chair of the Sanibel-Captiva Solar Connect project that last year helped islanders get reduced rates on solar installations, had panels on his own home in 2008, expects a full return on investment shortly. “Now our annual electricity cost is approximately $150, down from $1,200,” he says, “and we have added an air-conditioning unit, a heated Jacuzzi and two electric cars since then.” Roofmounted solar pool heaters are also far less expensive than a few years ago.
DECORATIVE TOUCHES
There are simple furniture/décor tips for smart recyling. “It is best to source
items as locally as possible,” adds Kathy McCabe, suggesting we purchase inside a 100mile radius, also recommending wood furniture certified as sustainable by the Forest Stewardship Council, and cushions and pillows with soy or natural latex-based fillers. You can also find recycled and high-quality vintage and used items from secondhand and antique stores, from online companies such Chairish. Eamon Sullivan, owner of Tropical Tradesmen General Contracting on Sanibel, suggests recycling your stuff. “Furniture, hardware or appliances, there is usually someone else who c an use it,” he says.
THE GREAT OUTDOORS
Landscaping impacts wildlife, the planet and your water bill. Jenny Evans, SanibelCaptiva Conservation Foundation’s Native Landscape and Garden Center (SCCF) manager, suggests native plants requiring less irrigation, that provide food and shelter for animals and support important pollinators. “Planting native species basically allows you to extend conservation land into your yard,” she says, adding that the g arden center has free consultations to members donating $100 or more. Shade trees also keep your home cooler.
CHANGING YOUR HABITS
Even if you are not ready for the big stuff, start by recycling batteries, old paint, chemicals and electronics, using a hazardous waste disposal center. Turn off appliances, lights and televisions, the water while brushing your teeth, letting the clothes washer run a single cycle on cold. Changing air-conditioning filters regularly improves home air quality and helps the system run more efficiently.
Think about what you can do today to make your household a safer and more ecofriendly place for your family and for our unique barrier island environment. Leah Biery is director of communications for the Sanibel Sea School.