In response to growing population, loss of resources, and sagging economies, companies across the USA are looking to create and provides service and products that are beneficial to the environment as well as to their bottom line.

According to The McGraw-Hill Construction and the National Association of Home Builders survey, the residential green building market is expected to be worth $12 billion to $20 billion this year. In five years (2012), the market is expected to double to 12% to 20% market share or $40 billion to $70 billion. 40% of builders think green building helps them market their homes in a down market.

Quality materials have emerged in this market as the most important reason for building green. Innovation and new technologies now make it cost effective to use these products. Previously, builders were motivated by energy cost savings of green homes and doing the right thing. This is likely due to green home marketing and how it improves quality of life. Now it can also be less expensive, and improve the longevity of a new home.

What I like best about this small family farm in rural Connecticut is the evident affection that Kris and Annemarie (the farmers) have for their animals. They want to make sure their critters live comfortably, under the best conditions possible. The goats browse on fresh pasture, supplemented with organically-produced hay and a certified organic grain blend; the hens scratch and peck within their movable A-frame houses, which allow them to be moved to a fresh patch of grass daily. The ever-moving flock of guinea hens is part of the natural pest control system here, along with bats and spiders. There’s nothing that Bailey the horse likes better as a snack than dandelions. Lucy, the calico cat, thinks she owns the place. And Kris and Annemarie love them all.