What is a ‘Green Home?’ 

A green home is one that meets high levels of energy efficiency and water efficiency, and its design has been reviewed against criteria which range from site utilization and landscaping to the selection of materials, finishes, appliances and lighting.  Most standards focus on new homes, but renovated homes can qualify as well.

Why would someone want a ‘Green Home?’ 

• Lower operational costs resulting from the energy and water efficiency aspects of the design.
• Tax incentives and rebates offered by electrical utility companies, government agencies and other organizations.
• Increased health and comfort from the features that control humidity, reduce chemical exposures and improve air exchange and filtration.
• Recognition that the home has been reviewed and meets specific criteria.
• Higher re-sale value.

What are the basic criteria for a ‘Green Home’?

The Criteria vary slightly from program to program but the key areas include:

• Lot design, preparation and development
• Resource efficiency
• Energy efficiency
• Water efficiency
• Indoor air quality
• Operation, maintenance and homeowner education

Environmental Programs

Environmental Stewardship Program (ESP) is a voluntary program for kitchen cabinet manufactures to demonstrate that their products and manufacturing processes are based on practices and materials that benefit both the environment and the well being of society. 

California Air Resources Board (CARB) Rule on Composite Wood Panels is an air quality regulation which seeks to control the emissions of formaldehyde from composite wood panels and products with such panels sold in the State of California.  It covers plywood, particleboard & MDF.  The rule is effective 1/1/2009, but phases all the various board products in a 4 year time frame.

Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) and NAHB Green Home Building Guidelines are voluntary programs which sets out criteria defining what a ‘green home’ is.  Builders submit their design for review, and if it earns a certain level of qualifying points it is awarded a certification plaque for display.

What role do cabinets play in a green home?

Although cabinetry isn’t a primary source for earning points under most environmental programs, your cabinet manufacturer should focus on doing the right thing for the environment.  In the overall qualification program, cabinets play a very minor roll in determining a home’s ‘green’ status.  The primary aspects that cabinets can help earn points on are in terms of construction materials and impact on indoor air quality.