 EnviroCitizen.org has gotten the impression that the average American probably sees green choices as being more expensive. Many argue that organic food and clothing is too costly. Many people also argue that green energy alternatives such as solar panels are far too expensive for the average person to afford. Low-income housing has often been seen as something that is necessary, but something that should remain basic and cheap.
Affordable housing options have remained bleak and basic until recently. Many developers are transforming affordable housing into modern, environmentally friendly buildings. Now more than ever, affordable housing is becoming a part of the green initiative to a healthier environment and future. In Duluth, Minnesota, the National Resources Defense Council teamed up with Enterprise Community Partners to launch the Green Communities Initiative, which is a five-year, $550 million project to build more than 8,500 environmentally friendly, affordable homes throughout the country! The importance of this project is undeniable. In the United States, buildings account for 40% of all of the raw materials consumed, which translates into 40% of carbon emissions. Aside from the environmental benefits, affordable housing has often plagued low-income families with poor ventilation, pest problems and toxic building materials. Such living conditions associated with affordable housing can cause asthma in children and even lead poisoning. Low-income families also struggle with energy costs, which have been rising drastically. When a family is forced to pay higher electricity bills, studies have shown that they spend less money on food. Studies have also shown than low-income families spend about 40% of their income on transportation costs. So, with help from the Green Communities Initiative, developers across the country are addressing these numerous problems with eco-friendly, affordable housing.
These new developments will reduce energy use by more than 30% through eco-friendly insulation, energy efficient appliances, skylights and high-performance windows. These developments will utilize materials that emit low levels of volatile organic compounds (VOC’s) and will be located in areas that are closer to public transit options and jobs. These so-called “smart developments” have many benefits. They reduce the impact on the environment and assist low-income families in increasing their livelihoods. They also help you, too. By recycling materials such as lumber and by using wood certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), our country can reduce the destruction of our national forests. These “smart developments” also prevent over-development, which conserves land and reduces our effect on wild habitats.
EnviroCitizen.org believes that "smart developments" will revolutionize the way in which we build and position future communities, creating a brighter future for low-income families by increasing their odds of success as well as their quality of living.
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