For most Fairfield County residents, home is already a place where earth-friendly measures like recycling are practiced. But whether they're shopping for a new property or renovating their current one, a growing number of residents are interested in making their homes green, inside and out. It's in response to this demand that Westport's Gault Energy and Stone is presenting the "Healthy Home Roadshow."

A three-town tour hitting New Canaan, Westport and Fairfield, the show will featue a panel of experts on topics like home energy efficiency, indoor air quality, and sustainable building materials. Among the specialists is Craig Kopfmann, president and founder of Green Acres Landscape and Design, LLC, whose role as father-of-three inspired him to make both personal and professional changes.

"After more than 15 years serving our clients in Fairfield County, I was content with our reputation as a creative landscape firm, but personally felt that we were no different from any of the other great companies in our area," he says. 

"I felt strongly that I owed it to my employees and our clients to be exceptional." Craig traveled around the country meeting like-minded professionals and attending seminars on storm water management, organic land practices, arborculture, sustainable landscaping, and Green Roof technology.

After attending the Green Roofs for Healthy Cities four day "Green Roof Boot Camp" last fall, Craig was sold on how easily the latest eco-conscious technology could be implemented by his clients.

"I think that we all have an opportunity to consider more responsible options when we look at our landscapes," he says. If the thought of a complete overhaul seems overwhelming, relax: According to Craig, every little bit helps.

"A small portion of our clients insist that we use only organic products on their properties while most are fine with more traditional methods and chemicals," he says.  

"I think we owe it to our clients to educate them on the options available, knowing full well that they take great pride in how their property looks.  This year I've decided to limit chemical use on my property and perhaps we can be successful in speaking with our clients to do the same.  We can all affect the outcome one property at a time." 

The Healthy Home Roadshow will be at the New Canaan Nature Center on April 29, the Barn at the Westport County Playhouse on May 4, and the Fairfield Museum and History Center on May 11. Admission is free. To reserve a seat, email rsvp@gaultenergy.com.