The changes in climate and the increased awareness about sustainability have prompted many people and builders to look for eco-friendly solutions. A smart green home is a relatively common term that many are not yet aware of. Smart green homes are eco-friendly homes containing the latest technology. These homes meet the needs of the occupants without harming the environment. Smart homes and green homes are often used interchangeably. However, there is a thin line of difference between the two. While green homes focus on being sustainable and environmentally friendly, smart green homes focus on sustainability and technology. A smart green home is a feasible approach that helps save much energy. It is also called eco-smart homes, eco-green homes, eco-living homes, eco-friendly living homes, green builds or green buildings. Despite being a relatively common term, not many are aware of smart green homes.

Features of a Smart Green Home:

The very idea of a smart green home is technology and sustainability, the amalgamation of which helps one to remotely monitor their homes and manage different components of the home through smart devices. Automation technology enables an energy-efficient home. Here are some features to keep in mind while opting for eco-friendly house construction:

It is essential to know the components of the materials that go into building a house. It is equally necessary to understand each components’ toxicity level. Sustainable materials like bamboo or clay (which have a longer lifespan and are recyclable) offer the best advantages for a smart green home.

Solar panelling can make a significant impact on a smart green home. When positioned effectively on the roof, solar power can generate enough energy to be utilized all over a house, making it energy efficient. Apart from solar panelling, energy star appliances can help reduce the monthly energy consumption by 40%.

When a home is equipped with low-flow showerheads, faucets or toilets, it can significantly reduce the monthly energy costs. Furnishing a home with a rainwater harvesting system is another way to ensure sustainability.

Smart devices (like thermostats, sprinklers, leakage detectors, etc.) and fittings that enable individuals to control different aspects in a home can help save a lot of energy. Motion sensors for lighting and water can cut down on many expenses while reducing energy consumption to a great extent.

When buildings are made using concrete, they absorb heat and radiate it to the surroundings (a phenomenon called Urban Heat Island Effect). A smart green home is made using sustainable materials like clay; it offers vegetation to thrive. Most smart homes have an area dedicated to vegetation where plants enable reducing the urban heat island effect.

Most eco-friendly houses have compost bins which help speed up the decomposition process. An excellent composting system helps manage the wastes and offers nutrient-rich compost for the plants in the home to flourish.

Benefits of a Smart Green Home:

A smart green home offers numerous benefits. Here are a few:

• Low Maintenance and Operating Cost

Smart green buildings have a unique design that ensures the efficient use of resources. This allows individuals to save a lot on maintenance and operating expenses. While the construction of smart green buildings may seem costly, they turn out to be cheaper and effective in the long run.

Smart green buildings have minimal to zero dependencies on non-renewable sources of energy. This makes the buildings the best in terms of energy efficiency, reducing strain on local resources.

A smart green building enhances the indoor environment, which depends on factors like lighting, ergonomics, thermal conditions, and air quality. A good indoor environment protects the health of a building and its occupants. Smart green buildings have operable windows (that allow maximum sunlight) and lower toxic materials.

Water efficiency is the judicious use of water resources. Smart green buildings allow individuals to explore alternative water sources, reducing water waste through the installation of plumbing fixtures.

People living in smart green buildings benefit the most owing to the safety of materials used in the construction. These buildings do not contain toxic substances like carcinogens which cause numerous health issues.

• Positive Impact on Environment

Using sustainable materials and reducing the usage of energy sources that pollute the environment enable smart green buildings in keeping the environment clean. They also help lessen the pace of climate change in the environment. Conscious use of resources and sustainability is the need of the hour. By opting to build a smart green home, not only would one be involved in energy conservation but would also be making the earth a better place for the future. Wienerberger India enables sustainability in smart green buildings through solutions like Porotherm bricks, wall cladding and roofing solutions. Visit the website to know more!

Curated by editor at  Wienerberger India

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