Earth Day Network just visited the CharityWorks GreenHouse, in McLean, Virginia, the first carbon-neutral designer showhouse on the East Coast. The house is filled with practical ways to incorporate sustainable design elements, from reclaimed wood floors, no and low VOC paints, non-toxic finishes, Forest Stewardship Council certified wood, soy based cushions, and art created from recycled pieces. The home has a solar power system installed by groSolar. The GreenHouse uses solar panels to provide hot water for the house. The home also utilizes a geothermal system, which takes advantage of the 55 degree temperature just below the surface, provides the heating and cooling.

The house is more energy efficient that 99.9 percent of homes built since 2000, using 80 percent less energy per square foot than a comparable new home.

Even the landscaping around the house is greener. Plants native to the area were chosen for their drought tolerance, disease resistance and low maintenance.

For more information visit www.charityworksgreehouse.com