In recent years, condo developers have heeded the advice of environmentalists to transform their condominium developments into a housing alternative that offers sound "green" living. Granted, the change may not have arisen from a genuine effort to make their projects more environmentally-friendly. Statistics show that homes featuring environmentally-sound features have actually become more attractive to buyers, who don't mind paying a little bit more for them to ease their conscious.



While several condos still leave much to be desired in terms of being environmentally-friendliness, new developments, particularly in Toronto's downtown core, are offering sustainable features. Sustainable buildings are those that have modified their design to include such features as greenery planted on rooftops to provide additional insulation for the building, geothermal heating systems, and deep lake water cooling systems. They also boast specially designed windows that reduce heating and cooling costs, maximize on natural lighting, and a provide an extensive waste management program to cut down on garbage.

Contemporary interior design also utilizes the best of natural materials for features and finishes of each suite. Chic recycled aluminum sinks, warm natural cork flooring and recycled custom glass walls and sinks are all the rage.

While still rare, there are developments that go a step further by providing power generated by solar panels or windmills.

But if you already live in a condo that is, unfortunately, not "green", you can still change things in your own home. Install lighting that is high efficiency, control water consumption by installing low-flow taps and energy efficient appliances, and remember to shop locally when you can.