Reduce building size with smarter design. Build homes in town or in areas that already have an infrastructure of services, such as water and electricity, to reduce sprawl. Locate homes in areas that have diverse housing types and prices. Select a location that encourages walking and bicycling. Plan homes in areas where garden space is available on the site or in a nearby community garden.
Buildings account for about one-third of the energy consumed in the United States.
Heating and cooling systems use 60 percent of this energy, while lights and appliances use another 40 percent. Manufacturing and transporting building materials requires additional energy. By carefully applying design principles that capture natural breezes and the sun's energy and light, and by using solar water heating systems, energy use in buildings can be reduced dramatically. These renewable energy practices save money, and they improve the environment and strengthen the economy by reducing the need for fossil fuels and nuclear energy. They also have sections that discuss design considerations for environmentally responsible buildings and communities.