Sustainability is the use of renewable resources, reducing carbon emissions and energy efficiency to protect our natural ecosystems. The key to this equation is changing human mindset and incorporating subtle changes in daily habits with the end goal of keeping the planet in balance. The following objectives encompass sustainability and offer ways on how to incorporate this choice into the kitchen and bath industry.
- Learning Objective 1: The badge holder will possess knowledge of terminology in relation to sustainability and sustainable rating programs.
- Learning Objective 2: The badge holder will possess knowledge of fundamental best practices and sustainable products for kitchen and bathroom projects.
- Learning Objective 3: The badge holder will possess knowledge of energy, water and waste efficiency as it relates to sustainability.
- Learning Objective 4: The badge holder will possess knowledge of sustainable design in relation to creating a healthy home.
- Learning Objective 5: The badge holder will possess knowledge of resource management and the importance of recycling and upcycling.
The conversation about what defines green building has changed dramatically in the last decade. Rather than focusing on reducing and going without, the new perspective is designing for benefit. With the addition of building science and access to third-party evaluators, sustainable design is now defined as a benefit to clients: conservation of energy and resources, better-performing appliances, healthier material options and tax incentives to remodel or build new in this format for “sustainability.”
Sustainability in buildings includes energy efficiency, water management, air quality, material selection, waste management and recycling. There are sustainable practices, products and techniques utilized in the design and construction of a building. Sustainability is also a philosophical approach that guides design and business decisions.
People, Planet and Profit
The purpose of this material is to inform the community on how to generate profit while protecting the interests of people and the planet. The two main lenses through which we examine kitchen and bathroom design focuses on the positive and negative impacts to people and the planet. An updated home can provide enjoyment and convenience to people but should not adversely impact the planet.
There are also two phases to a kitchen or bathroom project. The first is the one-time event of installation that includes all the materials and processes required to prepare for the move-in ready stage. The second is the operational phase that encompasses continued use of the space.
