Philadelphia Renewable

Habitat Philadelphia is proud to boast they not only build and restore homes that are affordable, but that are sustainable, as well. In 2009 the organization completed seven homes on Stiles Street in West Philadelphia that were certified by Leed (Leadership and Energy in Environmental Design) to help demonstrate the organization’s commitment to building in adherence to national standards.Habitat for Humanity goes on to point out that they build green for three reasons:

1. Environmental Stewardship by making certain that water and energy conservation are fundamental to the design and construction of homes. They utilize existing housing stock and infill lots which extend the lifecycle of Philadelphia homes, retain cultural resources, reduces waste, and minimizes the amount of energy that would be required for demolition and ground-upconstruction.
2. Economic Impact by building homes that become more affordable because of reduced utility and maintenancecosts. Green building projects stimulate the marketplace, encouraging manufacturers to supply environmentally conscious, locally manufactured products. Sustainable building design and construction fuels the continued growth of green jobs in theregion.
3. Social Implications by building homes that dramatically improve indoor air quality for families, and healthier living conditions that help reduce medical expenses, allowing partner families to save more.

The organization goes on to state that their green housing initiatives “helps set a precedent, demonstrating that green doesn’t have to mean more expensive. The presence of a green Habitat home can jumpstart positive community activity and environmental consciousness on a street, block, orneighborhood.”If you’d like to get involved to help a neighborhood contact Habitat for Humanity Philadelphia located at 1829 North 19^th Street or call 215.765.6000.

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