Five Must-Have Design Features in an Eco-Friendly Home
According to the Low Carbon Living CRC, Australian homes generate around 13 per cent of our carbon emissions. It’s a wake-up call that sustainability encompasses far more than recycling and taking shorter showers, and those fundamental changes are vital to the ongoing health and longevity of the planet.
With this in mind, eco-friendly homes have soared in popularity over the years. Let’s go over five must-have design features for an eco-friendly home.
Passive heating and cooling
Airconditioning and heating are two massive culprits that contribute to higher energy bills and, therefore, a higher carbon footprint. Passive heating and cooling take the orientation of the home into account, ensuring the home captures the natural warmth from the sunlight in the winter while blocking it out in the summer through the seasonal positioning of the sun. Other shading options such as overhangs and trees in proximity make a huge difference as well.
Use of recycled materials
Reduce, reuse, recycle – There is a growing trend of using recycled building materials in the construction process as well as interior design, wherein recycled or natural materials are repurposed in a way that is both sustainable and stylish. Some examples of this trend include recycled bricks, timber and steel. Bricks made from recycled plastic are another option, wherein a machine compresses waste into the shape of a typical building brick. These have various positives, such as better acoustic and thermal performance, plus a much smaller carbon footprint.
Energy efficiency
It is no secret; we are very dependent on energy to carry out our day-to-day lives. However, there are ways we can improve our energy efficiency through using natural elements, like sun. Solar panels are a popular option that prove themselves to be efficient time and time again. Installing water tanks to collect rainwater will also drive down water bills.
Native plants
Planting native trees, shrubbery and flowers around the property will help the local ecosystem thrive. This also allows for exciting options to style flora to suit the design of the home. Birds of paradise, native wattle and bottlebrush make for a spectacular splash of colour as well as inviting wildlife such as birds and butterflies to the property.
Low or no VOC paint
VOC (volatile organic compounds) are unstable, chemical-containing compounds commonly found in paints which can have a negative effect the environment and human health. As paint dries, these VOCs are released into the air. Using paint that has low or no levels of VOC not only benefits the planet, but human health. They ensure a higher air quality, lower odour, are easier to clean and help to reduce the concentration of contaminants in the ozone layer.
There are various government rebates available to support our ongoing quest for a more sustainable world. For example, eligible homeowners may be able to receive a rebate for sustainable home upgrades.
