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身处蜗居，淡然安居

A Zero Energy home uses various materials and cutting-edge technology to keep energy consumption low or “zero”, while utilizing sustainable products both inside and outside. Some popular ways to produce energy is to install solar panels, utilizeThermomax heat (solar heated vacuum tubes) and harness wind power. Sustainable components include wood that grows rapidly (such as bamboo and alder) and recycled materials (such as glass and salvaged lumber). In addition, some homes are utilizing roof gardens to capture water which can be used later for irrigation and water supply around the property.

The interesting part of green construction is that not only are the components and their sustainability measured, but also their performance. For example, heating a home using solar panels becomes much less effective if the windows in the house are not properly insulated or treated to keep the heat in and the UV rays out. In this way, an energy efficient house is then judged by the sum of its parts, not just one component. So, in order to build a zero energy or efficient green home, many details, much experience and some ingenuity is necessary.

Another fascinating thing about green homes is their link with nature and the positive effect they have on living organisms—both human, and otherwise. Where many homes are often built and finished (paints, carpeting, misc. furnishings etc) with toxic or chemical materials, green homes are actually often built and constructed with products that are of nature or less allergenic. Instead of becoming a dead zone—a place where humans remain separate and disconnected from nature, the space becomes something which embraces and nurtures nature.