Most of us probably share a similar passion towards saving our planet and reducing human impact on the environment. We all may feel positively toward the phrase “Green Building.” This phrase encompasses solar and wind systems, Energy Star and WaterSense standards for fixtures and appliances, Cradle to Cradle (C2C) certified building materials, and other certifications. However, these are high initial cost technologies and strategies that are not affordable for everyone. Although the high-cost expenses of these services and features are unanimously deemed beneficial for occupants’ health, comfort, and for the environment, as well as financially cost-saving in the long run, there are also actions that we can take in our own homes that are very low cost, yet still make a significant difference. 

Incorporating a rain barrel

A rain barrel is a container that collects rainwater runoff from the gutter system. It reduces your municipal bill by providing an alternative for outdoor water usage, saving you money while simultaneously saving water. It also decreases the volume of runoff water entering the storm sewer system, which carries with it pesticides, fertilizer, and other chemicals that pollute bodies of water.

Planting native and adaptive plants in your yard 

According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the country spends more than $100 billion annually containing invasive species and managing the effects of infestations. Non-native and invasive plants disrupt the ecosystem, compete with landscaping, and grow beyond property boundaries into and over storm drainage, affect building durability, and create long-term maintenance issues (USGBC, 2013). Native plants are those endemic to your region, and adaptive plants are those that have assimilated to an ecosystem without causing any harm. Planting native and adaptive species in your yard boosts the health of your local ecosystem, and can help to mitigate the effects of invasives.  

Implement rain gardens 

A rain garden effectively filters stormwater and allows it to seep slowly in the ground. Not only does it slow down the water flow, reducing the potential for flooding, but a rain garden also provides habitats for insects and birds, and makes your yard more attractive.

There are a few steps to consider when implementing a rain garden:

• When choosing the location, find a spot that typically accumulates rainwater. This place should be at least 10 feet away from foundations and not under trees. 

• Rain garden depth should be between 6-12 inches deep consisting of different layers of amended soil and subsoil, with placing a 20 cm berm at the lower area to retain the water (DNR, n.d.). 

• Only native or adaptive plants should be used for installing rain gardens with deep roots to absorb more water and tolerate drought. On the borders place low growing grass, rocks, gravel, and sand to filter the water and stop the stream.

These three tips are all easy to implement at low costs, which reduce our impact on nature as well as provide benefits for people.

References:

DNR. (n.d.). RAIN GARDENS: A BEAUTIFUL WAY TO REDUCE RUNOFF POLLUTION! https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/Stormwater/raingarden

USGBC. (2013). LEED Reference Guide for Homes Design and Construction. Washington DC: U.S. Green Building Council.