Alternate Energy – Energy from sources other than fossil fuels (coal and natural gas), such as renewable sources like wind, sun, or running water.

Carbon Footprint - The total amount of carbon dioxide emitted over a given time by a person, organization, or state. Usually expressed in equivalent tons of carbon dioxide (CO2).

 Energy Star – Introduced in 1992 by the United States Environmental Protection Agency as a voluntary labeling program to identify and promote energy-efficient products to help reduce greenhouse emissions. Originally designed for computers and monitors, it expanded to include office products, major appliances, lighting, home electronics and more. New expanded programs now also include complete buildings such as homes, commercial and industrial buildings.

 Green Power – Generally this is the production of electricity from environmentally friendly sources such as photovoltaic, geothermal, hydroelectric, biomass, hydrogen fuel cells, ocean energy and wind power. Many homes and businesses are taking advantages of solar systems that not only make electricity but also heat water and interior environments.

 Greenwashing – The practice of making an unsubstantiated one misleading claim about the environmental benefits of a product, service, technology or company practice. 

Grey water – Waste water from lavatories, showers, baths and sinks only. This water can be stored in special equipment and may then be used to water lawns, gardens or other relatively benign non-potable uses such as groundwater recharge. Water from toilets is called black water; it must be properly drained to the sewer or septic system.

 LEED- The acronym for “Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design”. The LEED program was developed by the U.S. Green Building Council as a system for rating new and existing commercial, institutional and residential buildings. It evaluates the overall environmental performance during the lifecycle of a building and provides a tangible methodology for anayzing the standards of a green building.

 Sustainability – A way for working and living that balance immediate needs for commerce, living, habitation, food, transportation, energy and entertainment with future needs for these resources and systems as well as the liveliness and support of nature, natural resources and future generations.

 Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) – VOCs, usually in the form of formaldehyde gas, a by-product of hydrocarbon-based materials. Building materials such as particle board, plywood, adhesives, paints, vanishes; carpet, drapes and furniture are often made with formaldehyde products. Other sources include some you may not think of; tobacco, burning gas, perfume, cleaning agents, hairspray and even copy and printing machines. Degree of exposure to VOCs can cause everything from mild symptoms such as irritated eyes, ears and throat to more severe reactions such as wheezing and lung, memory and anxiety problems. By using low-VOC products, exposures are reduced and indoor air quality is improved.

Source: GaRealtor Magazine