For architect Jeff Law, renewable power is just one part of a more ecologically responsible lifestyle that he and his wife, fellow architect Irene Ng, are committed to.
In fact, they were drawn to Portland in part because of the city’s neighborhoods and support for ecological sustainability and bicycling. Says Law: “It all coincides with many of our values.”
Eco-minded at work and home
As architects, Law and Ng strive to make environmental responsibility central to their building designs. “Constructing and operating buildings accounts for half of our country’s total energy consumption,” Law says. “By designing passive systems, being more climate responsive and supporting the development of renewable power options, we can help move the industry to change.”
The couple environmental commitment began before “green” got popular. Back in 2002, they were among the first to sign up for Portland General Electric renewable power options. As Green Source subscribers, 100 percent of their electrical usage is offset with renewable resources. By also selecting Habitat Support, they pay a monthly fee that goes directly to the Nature Conservancy to support stream habitat for salmon and other fish.
Greener living, one step at a time
To make their home more energy efficient, they converted their gas home heating system to an electric ground-source heat pump. “We are replacing our appliances as they wear out, or as we feel incentives and new efficiency measures warrant it,” Law says. They cut their water consumption in half by switching to a high-efficiency washing machine and low-flow shower heads.
In the ongoing remodel of their Craftsman bungalow, the next phase includes insulating the walls and adding a solar array to the roof. “Our goal is to be fossil-fuel free,” Law says.
Lives in tandem
Law and Ng carry that goal into their daily commute, too. Nearly every day, the couple bikes to work together — on a tandem bicycle. They chose their home based on its central location.
They love living in close-in Southeast, because it’s so friendly to bikes and pedestrians. Anywhere they can’t get to on foot, they can reach by biking, public transportation or a short car trip. Says Law: “Each little piece we do combines together to have a significant impact.”