The Elements OvervieW Standards As an EarthCraft™ and
Energy Star® certified neighborhood,
The Elements will provide healthier, more comfortable homes
that reduce utility bills and protect the environment. In
order to receive these certifications, The Elements must
pass two rigorous independent inspections and exhibit excellence
in four elements - sustainability,
efficiency, durability, health.
EarthCraft™ EarthCraft™ construction
is a voluntary green building program of the Southface Energy
Institute. This program serves as a blueprint for healthy,
comfortable homes that reduce utility bills and protect the
environment. A typical EarthCraft House™ provides a
healthier, more comfortable environment for the homeowner
at a lower cost of ownership than conventional homes. EarthCraft™ certified
homes must pass two independent inspections: one prior to
drywall installation and the other during performance testing
at completion. The inspections focus on site planning, waste
management, indoor air quality, water conservation, energy
efficient techniques and equipment, and resource efficient
design and materials.
Energy Star® Energy Star® is a voluntary
partnership between the government and more than 9,000 organizations,
including 2,500 of the nation’s home builders. Together
with home buyers and their families, Energy Star® works
to achieve a common goal - protecting the environment for
future generations by changing to more energy-efficient practices
today. Compared with standard homes, Energy Star® qualified
homes use substantially less energy for heating, cooling
and water heating - delivering savings month after month.
Additional savings on maintenance can also be substantial.
US
EPA ranks indoor air pollution among top five environmental
risks. Unhealthy air is found in up to 30% of new and renovated
buildings.
US
EPA ranks indoor air pollution among top five environmental
risks. Unhealthy air is found in up to 30% of new and renovated
buildings.