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Dewees Island - The
natural island resources and pristine environment at Dewees Island have
been spared the impacts of over development through the implementation
of sustainable construction and landscaping practices. The island,
located just north of Charleston, is home to a housing project begun by
Dewees Island Development Company. However, the company undertook
the project with the goal of protecting the natural island ecosystem through
minimized external intrusion. They limited development to 150 home
sites that would incorporate conservation in land use and xeriscaping to
create a manicured surrounding consistent with the natural habitat.
Xeriscaping also preserves groundwater and minimizes the need for fertilizers.
Each home had to comply to strict standards, some of which included structurally
insulated panels, rainwater harvesting, permeable pavement, low- VOC paint
finishes and adhesives, low-flow plumbing fixtures, small-diameter sewer
lines, and shared wastewater treatment systems. Construction crews
are instructed to minimize the amount of lumber they cut, and waste reduction
policies are strictly enforced. Electric vehicles are used to travel about
the island. Before construction, the climate was studied so energy
efficiency could be maximized through the orientation of the house.
Homes are oriented to collect cooling breezes, have overhangs and use strategically
planted vegetation to reduce air conditioning expenses. 92% of the
island was conserved and efforts to enhance efficiency netted a total of
60% energy savings, 70% water savings, and 60% household waste savings.
Dewees Island Homes are built to exceed Energy Star standards.