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Written by Shelly Paul

Women’s health concerns are changing the way homes are being built. By making alternative choices for their homes and internal environments women are not only keeping their families healthier, they are in turn impacting less on the earth. Women, men and especially children can be at risk for both external and internal environmental pollution/toxins. External pollutants (such as vehicle and industry emissions and pesticides) can cause many illnesses/diseases such as asthma and cancers. Internal pollutions can be found in the home in the materials used to build, insulate, finish or clean the home (building materials containing formaldehyde, insulation, carpets (off-gassing), lead paint and chemical cleaners). “Sick building syndrome” is an illness that has been recognized recently by the government. Many different chemicals found in these products may cause cancers of the breast, uterus and ovaries; endometriosis; and uterine fibroids. Having poor air flow, or ventilation, in combination with heating and cooling systems can also cause indoor air problems. Radon, pesticides, and other outdoor sources of pollution can enter your home through cracks in walls and open windows. Hot and humid weather can also increase levels of some pollutants. Motivated women and men are seeking out alternative building solutions to improve indoor environments for their families. Martha Rose who began as a framer and foundation worker in Portland is now a builder/owner of Martha Rose Construction. She builds homes that conserve energy and maintain healthier indoor quality. Terry Phelan an architect was inspired by the book Strawbale House by Athena Swentzell Steen began taking workshops on natural building and started her own green architectural firm called Living Shelter Design. Amee Quiriconi a building engineer in Seattle started her own consulting practice for energy efficient lighting design and green building. She and her partner also own Tiger Mountain Innovations, which manufactures Squak Mountain Stone, a durable and beautiful stone-like material for countertops and tiles made from local recycled paper, glass and fly ash concrete. Quiriconi sees green as becoming mainstream in the not so distant future. Green or ecological design and building has many facets, from natural lighting and heating from the sun, to using alternative building methods and materials like straw bales and rammed earth. One of the most effective designs is to build smaller, smarter homes. The best way to make less of an impact on the environment is to use less material. The wise use of space can also translate into less space to heat, improving its energy efficiency. Choosing to use materials that are environmentally sustainable like materials which are recycled or recyclable is a responsible option. Some materials are more environmentally friendly or ‘sustainable’ because they can be grown yearly (straw) vs. every 30 to 60 years (trees). Others are better for the health of the occupants because they are less likely to leach toxic gases into the air. Our inner and exterior environments continue to directly affect our health, and ultimately the choices we make every day of how we live, affect our environment. We can no longer separate our environment from our own health as they are not different, but connected and interdependent upon the survival of each other.

 

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