Go Green at Home for Health Benefits

Often, when we think of Planet Earth, we picture lush landscapes, rushing rivers, clear blue skies, and exotic wild animals. Thankfully, those on board the green movement are working hard to keep our environment as beautiful as we tend to picture it.  What we sometimes forget, however, is that right there alongside the animals, trees, and oceans are human beings. We can’t forget that, like every species and every river, we are a huge part of our home. Not only should we restore the health of our planet, we need to safeguard our own health from the negative effects of environmental toxins.

Keeping yourself and your family free of toxins may be simpler than you think, especially if you are remodeling your home or in the process of building a new one. First off, whether or not you’re looking to make huge green modifications, it’s important to check your home’s insulation for asbestos. Asbestos is a natural mineral used in many older homes in drywall and insulation. When it’s disturbed, its fibers are spread through the air and can be inhaled or ingested.

If asbestos fibers are consumed over a long period of time, they build up in the lungs or stomach. This can cause a cancer called mesothelioma.  Symptoms are subtle, ranging from shortness of breathe to coughing, and are dormant for 20-50 years.  Often, victims are unaware of their condition until the cancer has spread to other vital organs. Because of this dormancy factor, life expectancy is extremely low.

Replacing your insulation is a proven way to reduce energy costs and an effective way to go green, but doing so can also prevent damaged asbestos from remaining in your home.  If your home was built before the 1970’s there’s a good chance that it may contain asbestos in addition to costing you a fortune in energy bills.  If you plan to replace your insulation, have an asbestos abatement professional test for the toxin.  Attempting to remove it on your own can further damage the asbestos.

Now, if you’re intending on building a brand new green home, consider radon-resistant construction. Radon is a radioactive gas that naturally collects in soil and tends to seep in through cracks in foundations and walls. Living in a radon-polluted environment can cause lung cancer and other poisoning side effects. Fortunately, builders now can build radon-resistant homes using simple materials and strategies. The costs for having radon-resistant construction done are minimal and the health benefits are substantial. Building with radon prevention in mind also means that your foundation and walls will be well sealed. This will also prevent waste in energy and costs.

So, if you’re planning on doing a little renovation or on building an entirely new house, consider making it green and making it healthy. Check for asbestos to avoid complications and consider radon-proof housing to steer clear of lung cancer and radon poisoning.  Remember, protecting the entire planet means protecting yourselves as well!