As printed in the November 2006 issue of Healthy Beginnings Vol 1, Issue IV

The term green is popping up everywhere. Green living encompasses all of our lives, from the food we eat and the clothes we wear, to the way we build, decorate, and clean our homes.

But how do we define green homes? And what are some simple steps you can take to make your home healthier for your family and for the planet?

When we consider the term green, there really is no clear definition. We can create greener homes by conserving energy and resources, creating healthier environments, and buying products that reduce our impact on the environment.

Resource conservation is one of the main foundations of green living. There are so many ways we can conserve energy within our homes. Although obvious, we sometimes need another reminder to turn out the lights when they are not in use, line-dry clothes when possible, replace lights with compact fluorescent bulbs, and turn off the water while doing the dishes and brushing our teeth.

You can take further steps by:

1. Reducing your water consumption by installing a low-flow shower head and faucet aerators
2. Installing a heat-on-demand water heater in your home
3. Purchasing Energy Star appliances

 Every step we can take to reduce resource use leaves more for our future and our children, while reducing pollution.

Another foundation of a green house is the quality of health in our homes. Reducing the amount of chemicals in our home and improving the quality of our water and the air we breathe are essential.

Here are some easy steps to improve the health of your home

1. Use healthy cleaners to reduce fumes and toxic substances in your living space.
2. Filter your water. Lead and chlorine are concerns if you live in an older home in the city. Pesticides and nitrates are a concern if you have a well.
3. Test your home for water quality (bacteria and pesticides) and air quality (radon, Carbon Monoxide, asbestos) and for lead dust and paint.
4. If you are doing any painting or staining in your home, use low odor, low VOC paints and stains.
5. We spend approximately a third of our day in our bedrooms. Make your bed a healthy haven with natural fibers and fillings, such as organic wool and cotton.

The third area to consider is durability and sustainability. We want our homes to be durable. By building homes that will withstand time and the elements, we create a structure that will not use more resources for repair or replacement. Sustainability means more than just making a few changes; this is a way of thinking and living. Everyday we make choices that affect the footprint we leave on this planet. Enjoy thinking about your choices and how good it feels to be a steward for the earth while creating a healthier home for your family.

In this throw away culture, try to make decisions with your dollar. Purchase services and products that will last.

1. If you are making renovations to your home, work with trades people who do quality work.
2. If you are redecorating, choose products that are made with recycled content or products that replace virgin materials.

Other resources for green home products:

• Linden Hills Natural Home, Minneapolis
• Lakewinds Natural Foods, Minnetonka