It’s fitting that the word “eco” comes from the ancient Greek “oikos” meaning home. Our homes use significant energy. Whether you are building a home or remodeling, there are myriad ways to go green, increase your comfort, and lower your bills. We’ve included some info for renters, too.
For inspiration, learn the impact of your home energy use by calculating your CO2 emissions at carboncounter.org or by using the carbon counter page of our book.

New & Used Green Products
Salvaged materials offer a unique aesthetic and are often cheaper than new products. Architectural Antiques (1330 Quincy St NE) and City Salvage (505 First Ave NE) have a wide variety of reclaimed materials and fixtures. The ReUse Center (2801 21st Ave S, Suite 180) has two locations offering beautiful wooden rain barrels, old barn wood, and materials from turn-of-the-century homes. The ReUse Center also carries FSC flooring. Find more certified wood and some workshops through mncertifiedwood.com.

The Green Institute, which oversees the ReUse Center, has a new program called Minnesota GreenStar that sets green building and remodeling standards and has a directory of certified builders. Browse through low-VOC paints, efficient toilets, and countertops made from recycled goods at Natural Built Home (4020 Minnehaha Ave). See their website for occasional classes. If you’re curious about green building techniques and want to learn more, the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency Green Building site has a wealth of ideas and resources.