When it comes to being environmentally responsible, people are discovering going green can start at home. Builders and buyers are finding new ways to build homes that leave a smaller footprint on the environment.

In the home building market, many of the green features are now most common in higher end homes. But builders say this will spread across the market as more buyers demand more environmentally friendly options for their projects.

No question, this 7,000 square foot home in southern Sioux Falls isn't your typical house. But it's not just the size that stands out.... Builder Dudley Deffenbaugh says this home has some of the most environmentally friendly features available. He say it uses less energy, water, natural resources. And it just makes it a healthier place to live.

From the bamboo hardwood floors, to the geo-thermal heat pump that uses wells to cut down on energy used to heat and cool the house, if you want a heat pump it will cost you about 25% to 30% more than regular heating and cooling systems. But Deffenbaugh says you'll get that money back.

In the home's basement, you won't find any carpet or tile. Deffenbaugh says, "We used a stained concrete. There again utilizing not having any floor coverings. Basically getting by with just the coloration in the floor. Using templating."

Going green is also a big focus on area campuses. Steven Mantzner is a biology professor at Augustana College in Sioux Falls. He is part of a group of faculty and students look at what they want in a new science building.  

Deffenbaugh says there's been a big push for about the last 3 years to be more conscious of the environment in the home building industry. Adding the environmentally friendly features isn't cheap. But as there's more demand for it, builders say there will be more options for those who want to build green.