There's a lot of conflicting information about what's good for the environment and what's not -- and there are plenty of big claims, says Metropolitan Home editor-in-chief Donna Warner.
"People aren't aware because the information is not clear," Warner says. "It's really important to get professional help; it may be expensive, but it can save you money in the long run."
In a special "green" issue of the magazine, Warner and industry experts, including two architects, a planner and an interior designer, weighed in on what's green and what's not:
-- Make sure that the house is properly sealed to reduce energy use but also ventilate it properly to avoid indoor air pollutants.
-- For your flooring, select recycled tiles or wool carpeting.
-- Remove your shoes at the door because toxins that get carried in them can worsen indoor air quality.
-- Paint should be non-toxic and have low VOC (volatile organic compounds).
-- Buy durable products that last a long time to avoid having to replace them.
--Associated Press
