Is Colorado Sustainable?

Sustainability is an important concept that has only recently been gaining the attention it deserves. For too long, humanity has disregarded the negative effects that it had on earth’s environment. If we don’t resolve the problems we’re in for troubles that are both far-reaching and devastating.  Basic concepts like recycling and using mass transit systems are no longer enough. We need to focus on building green communities, sustainable communities that use renewable resources and don’t abuse our natural resources.
Colorado has been a site for building sustainable communities for several years now, thanks to the Build Green Colorado program. What started as a local program in the Denver, Colorado area has grown into a statewide association of over 100 green builders, involved in everything from small contractors to high volume builders. People are responding to the idea of eco friendly communities, and builders must adapt as well.

Despite the success of the program, some people still feel that building green communities is too expensive, too difficult or just ultimately pointless. Ignoring the simple fact that preserving humanity’s future takes precedence over any concerns of price or difficulty, the truth is that these concerns are simply unfounded.

Any type of home in Colorado, no matter the size or location, can use the principles of sustainable communities. While it’s undeniable that renovating an existing home with green features will cost money, the expenses may be smaller than is commonly perceived. More importantly, when building new eco friendly communities, the cost is barely noticeable. With careful planning, it may be possible to build a completely green home without any additional cost. Ultimately, you’ll save a fortune on energy costs over time as well as have a better quality of life, making the choice to go green even more attractive.

Many non- green builders will defend their choice not to contribute to green communities by saying that they are simply building what’s in demand in Colorado. They seem to believe that people don’t want to be part of sustainable communities – that they’d rather not save money on energy and improve the quality of their lives. The truth of the matter is that there is a high demand for homes that take advantage of water and energy efficiency technologies. Many people are looking to make a change in the way that they live, and want to be more in harmony with our planet’s ecology – that’s what green communities are about.

Some people argue that following techniques and checklists required to make a home or other building compliant with the concepts of sustainable communities is too much hassle. This is in part true, especially for established builders who have already learned certain techniques. However, it’s important to consider the benefits of learning the skills necessary to help build green communities. There are many free programs and educational materials about building green. While it will most certainly take time and practice, the important thing to remember is that building green is investing in the future – of Colorado and of the entire planet.

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