Across the country, especially in drought stricken areas like California, green communities are popping up everywhere. The concept of environmentally friendly materials and sustainability has become the primary focus in both construction and landscaping industries. Along with that homeowners are looking for ways to be more “green”. They want to be able to use fewer natural resources, save money and keep their properties as beautiful as possible in the process. Green communities are designed to focus on preventing waste, while maximizing efficiency and comfort in an environmentally sound fashion.
Raising a family in a green community has several benefits. One of the benefits many people don't realize, is the cost effectiveness of living green. Reduced consumption of both electricity and natural gas can dramatically lower utility bills. Water usage also decreases saving even more money and helps areas that often deal with lengthy droughts conserve water without excessive restrictions. If water restrictions are already in place, living green helps to keep homeowners in compliance.
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Limited Exposure to Toxins and Contaminants – Green communities restrict the use of harsh fertilizers, pesticides and herbicides that can contaminant both soil and ground water supplies.
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Sustainability – Using environmentally friendly materials increases sustainability and helps to prevent the destruction of valuable natural resources.
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Eco-friendly Atmosphere – Living in an environmentally friendly is important for families with children. It teaches responsibility as well as instills lifelong habits that will continue to benefit the environment. Installing artificial grass and other energy saving features can result in less maintenance and fewer hours spent taking care of the property.
Disadvantages
Along with the benefits, green communities also have their disadvantages. To many, the disadvantages are not necessarily drawbacks, but challenges that only need to be overcome. If you are building a new home, you can incorporate environmentally sound practices and materials in its construction. The problems many people face become apparent when they try to renovate or remodel an existing home. Converting an average home into an energy efficient one can be extremely costly. Even though, the money saved over time is substantial, the initial cost can be overwhelming.
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Limited Control Over Your Own Property – If you live in a green community or neighborhood, you may have to get the approval of the city or neighborhood homeowner's association before beginning any improvements. You may be limited to the types of renovations you can make as well as the materials you want to use.
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More Work and Higher Cost – When you convert an existing home into an energy efficient model, you may have to spend excessive amounts of money on newer wiring, windows and appliances. You may even have to alter certain parts of the structure to ensure sustainability.
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Fewer Options When It Comes to Landscaping – In drought prone areas, you may have limited options when it comes to choosing both organic and inorganic materials. The types of plants and surface materials used can have a dramatic effect on the amount of water and maintenance a landscaped area requires to look its best.
Green communities are ideal places to raise a family, offering a safe and toxin-free environment. Children can play outside and roam the neighborhoods without fear of being exposed to many environmental hazards that are commonly found in big cities. In California, communities like San Jose and Newport Beach have decided to go “green”. City officials realized the benefits associated with living an environmentally friendly lifestyle. Not only does it save money in the long run, it also protects children, adults and family pets from toxins and contaminants that many people do not even realize they are being exposed to.
