Check out the links below. The first link is from the company where we bought our house plans. They have a group of articles about building green and living more earth-friendly. You’ll find some of the same things Robert suggested and more.

Also try:
EPA -
Just type in “green building” in the keyword search at the bottom of the page.

Energy Star -

US Green Building Council -

Good luck.

There are many things to consider, ill give you my tips.

1) Pay close attention to which appliances you buy look for the highest Energy Star rating.

2) Use compact fluorescent lights, they use far less energy then your standard fluorescent light. Downlights are also good, as they get converted to 15v

3) Make sure you use grey water, and have a water tank.

4) Ask for flooring products made from rapidly renewable resources, such as bamboo. Bamboo is one of the fasted growing plants in the world, requiring no replanting and little fertilization or pesticides.

5) Eliminate waste by choosing products that are biodegradable or recyclable. Consider the “lifecycle” of furnishings and accessories before purchasing: Are they made of materials that can be reused or recycled when the item eventually wears out or is no longer needed?

6) Look at installing a solar-hotwater system aswell as solar-power.

7) Make sure you buy a dual flush toilets, as well as watersaving shower heads.
Plant some tree’s around your house. When properly sited, trees and other landscaping can save up to 30% in home cooling and heating costs. They also help cool your community and make your Smart Choice home even more enjoyable.