What is Green design?
A green design uses less energy, water and natural resources, creates less waste and is healthier for the people living inside compared to a standard space. Sustainable solutions must be designed in at the earliest phases of a new or renovation project. For many of us this requires an investment of time, knowledge and money.

No need to get discouraged. There are changes we all can make to have a more environmental friendly space that also addressed the need to increase energy efficiency. You might not be ready to re insulate your home, change your windows, or add solar panels to your roof. But you can make some of the following changes:

• Include Energy Star labeled appliances and fixtures that will use less energy
• Use WaterSense labeled plumbing fixtures that will reduce water use
• Purchase more energy efficient lamps / bulbs such as compact fluorescent (CFLs) or light emitting diodes (LEDs)
• Use materials that are made from easily replenished natural resources, have recycled content, or can be recycled after a full life
• Use paints, coatings and sealants that have little to no harmful odors or gasses (indoor air pollution)
• Recycle when and as much as you can
• Use public transportation, walk or ride your bike instead of driving>

some information provided by the chicago center for green technology & USGBC