Passive Solar Design: Your Design & Materials Passive solar design and energy efficient design should be integrated into your new construction. Consider using salvaged and recycled material or the material that offers the longest life span options for exterior walls & decks Ensure that you use a high quality passive ventilation design at the very start of your project Ensure that your home is zoned for heating, cooling, lighting. Consult with those in the environmentally sustainable field & ensure you get the best advice Consider using bamboo, wool, cork, salvaged wood or even recycled glass for your floors or countertops. Use rapidly renewable and low embodied energy wall infill materials (straw bale / straw clay, etc.). When painting your new home, use recycled content or low / no VOC paints.