Glennstar Homes Ltd. - Master Builders

What is Built Green ^TM Alberta?

Built Green ^TM Alberta is a voluntary program that benefits the homebuyer, the community and the environment. This exciting new program promotes sustainable or "green" building practices to reduce the impact that building has on the environment.

Built Green ^TM Alberta is a program that allows builders/renovators to show consumers that our industry can and is building more environmental/energy efficient homes. For suppliers and manufacturers it opens up a new marketplace for "green" products. To developers, it is a new concept in community planning.

Built Green ^TM Alberta provides the tool for building homes that speak to the consumer concerns with regards to the energy efficiency and gives buyers a choice in the market place.

The program is based on the Canadian Federal housing initiative R-2000 and the Built Green ^TM Colorado program. Built Green ^TM Alberta focuses on targeting 4 distinct areas:

1. Energy Efficiency
2. Indoor Air Quality
3. Resource Use
4. Overall Environmental Impact

Why build Built Green ^TM Alberta?

Because we care about the future.
Few days go by that the media doesn't report about the irreversible negative environmental effects human activities are having on our planet. It seems like such a big problem that we as individuals can do little to change. The fact is, each one of us by the choices we make daily, contributes to either environmental preservation or decimation for future generations.

Rising energy costs.
Next to the mortgage, home energy bills are the largest on-going expense associated with home ownership.

Homebuyers who purchase a Built Green ^TM Alberta home benefit in many ways including:

the assurance that their home is energy efficient
reduces energy costs on an on-going basis
improved air quality
knowing that their home has a reduced impact on the environment

Homes receiving certification receive a Built Green ^TM Alberta Seal and an EnerGuide for Houses Label that can stay with the home and add to the resale value.

Built Green ^TM Alberta homes incorporate products that reduce the sources of indoor pollution. Solid, draft-free construction ensures even temperatures throughout your home and choosing innovative ventilation systems keep fresh air circulation year round. You and your family can breathe easier.

Built Green ^TM Alberta home is a superior product. The program encourages the use of more durable materials, inside and out, reducing maintenance and replacement costs. Consumers who choose to build a Built Green ^TM Alberta home will deal with the homebuilder who is specifically trained in and commited to using the latest technology in green design and building.

Built Green ^TM Alberta homes are independently audited to ensure each home meets the rigorous criteria laid out by the program. Choices on equipment, appliances and building materials can save money now while helping to increase the value of the home.

Flexability and Affordability.
In Canada a large void exists between minimum building code and R-2000 construction. Consumers can choose from 3 "green" achievement levels:

Bronze represents the minimum of these target areas
Silver the intermediate level
Gold is the maximum achievement level of the 3 "green" target areas

This makes the program more accessible and affordable to all consumers, depending on which level they have chosen.

Because it is the right thing to do.
The residential construction industry uses vast quantities of this nation's resources. It is our industries obligation to be mindful of its impact. Built Green ^TM Alberta is a program that encourages homes requiring fewer resourses to build and to operate, resulting in a reduced impact on the environment.

Because it's an opportunity.
The CAHBA and its members recognize this voluntary program as an opportunity to be an environmental leader. The program benefits both homebuyers and the community. Built Green ^TM Alberta is an opportunity for everyone to choose the "green" future.

For more information on this program, please visit: www.builtgreenalberta.com