Changing Times Call for Changing Minds..

I attended the Green Building Summit here in Dallas, earlier this month. There was so much energy and excitement I intended on writing about it weeks ago, but life in the fast lane had other plans..

It was such a pleasure to be in the same room as so many amazing "green" practitioners. Their ability to translate complex design situations into simple terms was a relief to most of us in the room.

Peter Pfeiffer was one of my favorite speakers at the event. I first saw Peter on Planet Green's: Worlds Greenest Homes in Austin Texas. You must check out this Texas beauty: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xEc7CUD2Svo

Peter has been doing this long enough to know what to do and what NOT to do. How long? He has 32 years in the green game, so if you want to take notes, do it from him! Speaking of note taking, Peter encourages you "to do your homework, or dont do it at all". This is, unfortunately, what is happening as we speak. There are businesses out there that could care less about energy consumption and efficiency but are blinded by the cha-ching of the "green movement" and are trying to get a piece. This happens in any industry. However, you have to be careful who you get your info from or you may find yourself highly disappointed an unable to recoup costs associated. You cant turn the TV on without seeing "green" this and "green" that. How do you know what to believe? Surround yourself by people you trust and do your homework! Is someone paying for the information you are receiving? Here's a link that has great environmental building news, no paid sponsors. www.buildinggreen.com

Peter told us to never underestimate pointing out the obvious.. So, obviously, what are the reasons we should embrace a greener lifestyle adjustment? That's easy: 1) Consumption 2) Health 3) Environment

The fact is, mankind has been building structure since the beginning of time. It used to be when considering building, you had to make the best use of the materials to get the best ventilation and longevity of the structure (no mass production tract builders). When we finally figured out how to put HVAC & plumbing in our buildings we stopped needing efficiency, or so we thought, because energy was so readily available and cheap. Not to mention we had no idea about the affects of hazardous materials and population was not an issue. The Industrial Revolution created a one track mind for Americans: CONSUME!!!!! And we haven't really changed our mindset, yet.

According to the US Census, as of 18:53 UTC (EST+5) Feb 24, 2010, the current population is as follows: U.S. 308,750,405 / World 6,804,791,258

Another question we should ask when building structures: Is the design conducive to the needs of the climate conditions of the location?

Peter has coined a new phrase that I thought was great! Buyer Beware of the "ECO-BLiNG"!! Lets be sensible here people. Eco Chic is cool and all, but what does it really do for you? Lets get back to basics and figure out the best orientation of the house, make sure shedding moisture away from the house is a priority. Inefficiency is the ABSOLUTE most important problem to solve. You can put solar panels, tankless water heaters, bamboo flooring and all the recycled material you want in your house, but then what? Don't spend your entire budget blinded by the "Eco-Bling". Let a certified professional help you make the right decisions. Call me, I can help! Stephanie Ebbesen 214-563-5769

See more of Peter's information at:
www.buildingsystems.com/profiles/blogs/spring-issue-design-strategies

Stephen Mouzon was also a great speaker at the summit. I will talk a little more about him, at a later date, but would like to leave you with something he mentioned. Stephen said the answer to this question will tell you a lot about a company's motives: "We do this because..." I will elaborate on my answer but in short. I do this because..I've witnessed the blind leading the blind and understand the importance of strong leadership that cares. I do this because I love life and believe where there's a will, there's a way. And most of all I do this because my ancestors tried for me and I will continue to try for my family, friends, and unborn children to improve their quality of life.