Today, House & Home introduces a new series that will detail how to incorporate green features throughout the home for increased energy efficiency, improved health and safety, and overall comfort and cost savings. This week’s article begins with an explanation of what green means.

From flooring to paint, there are lots of ways to green up your home — and lots of reasons, too. A green home uses less energy, water and natural resources; creates less waste; and is healthier for the people who live in it.

Tori Spott, a real estate agent with Shorewest who has a Green Designation from the National Association of Realtors, said that most homeowners want to be environmentally friendly, but they’re often concerned about the expense of going green and whether they’ll see a return on the money and time invested.

“The truth is, there are many easy and affordable ways to make your home green,” Spott said. “Simply replacing your existing appliances with greener versions will reduce energy consu ...