The first ever carbon neutral, zero-energy and multifamily community is open in the USA. The community proves that the construction of up-to-date; eco-friendly construction technologies are feasible and possible for typical housing projects.
zHome Constructions. Credit: www.zhome.org
The zHomes community located in Issaquah, Wash, consists of 10 townhomes that are salmon-friendly, constructed using low VOC materials and designed to consume zero level of energy and 70% less water.
The concept of zHomes was put into practice utilizing a joint public/private venture led by the City of Issaquah in association with Port Blakely, King County, Built Green communities, Washington State University Energy Program and Puget Sound Energy. The homes were formulated and constructed by Seattle builder Matt Howland and Ichijo USA.
The zHomes are built utilizing energy-efficient products and practices and utilize solar panels to produce the needed power. The water efficient fixtures and integrated rainwater reuse systems enable 70% less water consumption than average homes. In the construction, 78% of FSC qualified wood products and higher percentage of local, reclaimed and recycled materials were utilized. Over 90% of the construction related wastes were reused and recycled. The constructions offer improved air quality by the use of low VOC materials. The low-impact site development practices reduce the level of storm water impacts, which also includes an onsite runoff recharging facility. The constructions scored more than 850 points, which is the maximum points given for Built Green certification.
Source: http://www.z-home.org/