SUMMARY

The speaker discusses the origins of green building in Austin during the 1980s, including energy conservation, water use, and the Austin Green Building Program.

IDEAS:

• Austin’s early 1980s energy initiatives led to the national Energy Star program.
• Energy conservation was cheaper than building new power plants in Austin.
• Austin’s green building program focused on reducing landfill waste from construction.
• The term “green building” originated from Austin’s eco-friendly initiatives.
• Austin’s green building program predates the USGBC’s LEED certification.
• The program adjusts incentives based on effectiveness in conserving resources.
• Green building principles include reduced consumption, improved health, and less environmental impact.
• Remodeling existing structures is more eco-friendly than new construction.
• The energy conservation pyramid prioritizes design over expensive technology.
• Basic energy-saving measures are often more cost-effective than high-tech solutions.
• Solar panels may not be as effective as simpler energy-saving designs.
• The speaker’s own home exemplifies practical green building strategies.
• Maintenance and longevity of green technologies are important considerations.
• Educating clients on energy-efficient design choices is crucial for architects.
• Choosing a home’s orientation can significantly impact energy efficiency.
• Donating deconstructed materials to charities can provide tax benefits.
• Two-story homes can be more energy-efficient than single-story expansions.
• Reasonable ceiling heights can reduce the volume of air needing conditioning.

INSIGHTS:

• Early green initiatives in Austin sparked a nationwide energy efficiency movement.
• Cost-effective energy conservation can outpace the benefits of new power sources.
• The birthplace of “green building” was Austin, influencing global sustainability practices.
• Adjusting incentives based on actual conservation results refines green programs.
• Remodeling leverages existing infrastructure for environmental and carbon footprint benefits.
• Design choices at the base of the energy pyramid have lasting impacts.
• High-tech green solutions may underperform compared to simple design changes.
• Solar technology requires maintenance that may deter widespread adoption.
• Client education in green building can lead to more sustainable lifestyle choices.
• Strategic home orientation is a simple yet powerful energy-saving measure.

QUOTES:

• “Austin is the star in the center of Texas."
• "Saving energy is much less expensive than building a new power plant."
• "The oldest and most established green building program in the world is Austin’s."
• "It’s always better to remodel a house…than it is to build a new house out in the hinterlands."
• "You can’t air-condition your neighborhood; you want to air-condition your home only."
• "The single most expensive strategies are still the least effective."
• "Do green by design before you get into green by gizmo."
• "I learned why they call them active solar systems…you have to actively participate in their maintenance."
• "If you’re interested in starting off with an energy-efficient home…look for a lot or home on an east-west running street."
• "By making it a two-story house we can probably save you 30 percent on your energy bills.”

HABITS:

• Prioritizing energy efficiency in home and appliance purchases.
• Regularly maintaining solar panels for optimal performance.
• Seeking tax benefits through donation of deconstructable materials.
• Educating oneself on sustainable design before home renovations.
• Considering environmental impact when planning new construction projects.
• Implementing passive design elements like window shading for energy savings.
• Choosing home locations based on optimal solar orientation for efficiency.
• Opting for reasonable ceiling heights to reduce air conditioning needs.
• Advocating for green design over reliance on technological gadgets.
• Analyzing cost-effectiveness and payback periods for green investments.

FACTS:

• Austin’s Energy Star program inspired the federal Energy Star initiative.
• The city doubled in size before needing a new power source due to the program.
• Austin’s green building program was the first of its kind in North America.
• The program saves more money by incentivizing energy savings than building plants.
• Green building encompasses reduced consumption, health improvement, and environmental impact reduction.
• The Austin Green Building Program adjusts incentives based on effectiveness feedback.
• Proper solar orientation and shading can significantly reduce energy consumption.
• Donating deconstructed materials can provide significant tax deductions for homeowners.

REFERENCES:

• Austin Energy Star program
• South Texas nuclear power plant
• US Green Building Council’s LEED program
• USDA food guide pyramid
• Habitat for Humanity
• Better Homes and Gardens

RECOMMENDATIONS:

• Consider home orientation for natural cooling before installing air conditioning.
• Donate deconstructable materials to charities for tax benefits and sustainability.
• Prioritize passive design elements over high-tech solutions for energy savings.
• Educate clients on sustainable design choices for long-term environmental benefits.
• Choose two-story designs over expansions for better energy efficiency at home.
• Maintain solar panels regularly to ensure their long-term effectiveness and savings.