Main Ideas
Why are eco-friendly homes becoming important?
Because homes produce a lot of greenhouse gas emissions.
What device collects rainwater for watering plants?
A rain barrel.
What does eco-friendly mean?
Not harmful to the environment.
Where should building materials come from to reduce transportation costs?
Local suppliers.
Why do poorly insulated homes have high heating bills?
Because heat escapes easily.
Approximately what percentage of greenhouse gas emissions in the U.S. comes from residential housing?
About 20%.
What technology uses the Sun’s energy to produce electricity?
Solar panels.
What does insulated mean in a house?
Protected so heat does not escape.
What kind of materials are often used in eco-home construction?
Natural or reclaimed materials.
Why do electricity bills increase in modern homes?
Because of many electronic devices.
Why do governments encourage people to build greener homes?
To reduce pollution and energy use.
What device allows you to control your home’s heating remotely?
A smart thermostat.
What does sustainable mean?
Able to continue without harming the environment.
Where may modern solar panels be placed in eco-homes?
Inside roofs or windows.
Why must people consider the cost of solar panels?
Because they must pay for installation and maintenance.
What can happen to people who continue to use polluting energy sources?
They may face penalties or fines.
What system takes heat from the air or ground to heat a home?
A heat pump.
What does reclaimed materials mean?
Materials reused from old buildings.
What is rainwater used for in eco-homes?
Yard watering and plumbing systems.
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Why might governments ban gas boilers in the future?
To reduce pollution and carbon emissions.
What two groups benefit from greener homes?
Homeowners and the environment.
What type of boilers may replace gas boilers in the future?
Hydrogen-ready boilers.
What does blend with the environment mean?
Fit naturally into the surroundings.
What type of transportation might eco-home locations encourage?
Cycling or walking instead of driving.
What is the main message of the text?
Building eco-friendly homes helps the planet and saves money.