Some of us have never heard of things like low-VOC paint or geoexchange systems. Now is a great time to become a little more familiar. The good news is that better organized and readily available information, expertise, and resources have been moving into the region. EcOasis is a new resource center for green building and green living products in Summit County, a cooperative effort between BigHorn Ace, EcoProducts, Innovative Energy and the High Country Conservation Center. EcOasis offers environmentally friendly products, resources, knowledge, and advice to help owners of Breckenridge CO real estate become environmentally responsible.
How can you adapt your existing Breckenridge home or better plan for a new home in Summit County? Through the new cooperative, EcOasis, you will have access to professional help when you decide to take steps towards health and preservation. Just ask about anything you can do to turn your home green—in little ways and possibly big ways—such as the following:
1. Low VOC paint (volatile organic compounds) does not emit harmful vapors and is very helpful for children or adults with allergies or environmental illnesses.
2. Energy efficient light fixtures and bulbs are a wonderful investment and can actually simulate outdoor lighting.
3. Klean Kanteens, ChicoBags, OG Cotton Tote bags will help reduce the use of paper and plastic bags.
4. Find out where to recycle bottles, cans, and newspapers.
5. Composting is another little thing you can do to recycle and eliminate waste.
6. Seal windows and doors from leakage or purchase new double-pane windows to cut down drafts and heating waste.
7. Install solar panels and a solar hot-water system.
8. Harness geothermal energy to heat a building.
9. Install a geoexchange system to use the warmth and coolness of the earth under your home to regulate inside temperatures.
While you are at it, ask about joining the Energy Audit Program as a beginning step to start your conservation program. EcOasis is located next to the 7-Eleven in the back section of the paint store.
Posted by: Editor
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