Morrisania Homes, Bronx, NY, a new 64-unit, affordable-housing development, recycled 96 percent of its construction waste.

An energy-efficient home helps lower a household's environmental impact—and the utility bill.

Recycling construction waste reduces the amount of material thrown away.

Recycled-content carpets and furniture reduce manufacturing emissions.

Pleasant Hill Home, Freeport, Maine, uses energy-efficient windows and extra-thick wall insulation to maintain the indoor temperature and save 66 percent on heating costs.

Faucets and showers with low flow rates of 5.7 to 9.5 liters (1.5 to 2.5 gallons) a minute save up to 60 percent on water use.

Dual-flush toilets save from 7 to 10 liters (1.9 to 2.6 gallons) of water per flush.

Energy-efficient appliances reduce electricity use, which means lower utility bills and greenhouse gas emissions.

Solar panels turn sunlight into electricity. Each kilowatt-hour of solar electricity generated saves an average of 0.8 kilograms (1.7 pounds) of CO₂ emissions.

Insulated walls and windows keep the indoor spaces comfortable while conserving energy.