Ecomunicipality.com

We know that Americans are overweight. We know they need more exercise. We know they don't always eat well. And we also know that their cars are too big and consume too much fuel.

And, most of us, understand that Americans have too much square-footage in their homes.

But, check out this article in the NYTimes. Not only does too much house cost us money, consume fossil fuels and electricity and contribute to green-house gas emissions, living alone in a palace can actually contribute to an early death:

Contrary to popular belief, the pace and proximity of urban living can
actually contribute to more healthful lifestyles, while lower-density
communities tend to have a higher incidence of cardiovascular and lung
diseases, including asthma in children, as well as cancer, diabetes,
obesity, traffic injuries and deaths; these are exacerbated by an
increase in air pollution, gridlock and traffic accidents, and by a
lack of physical activity. The study recommended that people seek out
cities and towns with reliable public transportation systems, bicycle
lanes and pedestrian paths, ones that have schools, businesses and
stores within walking distance.

So, not only are these obscene "McMansions" bad for us in terms of the environment and geo-politics, they are bad for us in the same way that trans-fats and cholesterol binges are: they can cause cancer, diabetes and coronary problems.

The article has links to green building standards, organizations and trends, so if housing is your gig, your interest or just your casual subject of study, do check them out and post your thoughts and reactions here.

Building "green" is not only environmentally friendly, economically wise and globally sensitive--it's the best thing to do for your health!