Fifteen ways to “green” your home
April 2004
A
few short years ago the idea of “green” or environmentally
sustainable building practices was foreign to the majority of
people. These days the population is more aware than ever about the
importance of sustainable building practices and while more than 90%
of homes in Australia are now recycling. There are other simple
recycling measures we can implement in our homes to make them even “greener”.
Here are 15 ways you can help…
1. Install a rainwater tank – Rainwater can be used on the
garden, for washing clothes or in the toilet. These days there are a
wide variety of tanks available from virtually undetectable
slimline, coloured co-ordinated tanks to 50,000 gallon all purpose
tanks.
2. Reduce runoff – In landscaping try to avoid large areas of
paving. If you must have paving, ensure it is porous so it allows
water to flow through it or, alternatively, allow some space between
pavers for plants or grass to grow.
3. Add a skylight – Skylights increase internal light without the
need for electricity.
4. Use solar hot water – If you’re upgrading your hot water
system, install a solar model. It’s been estimated that solar hot
water systems can save around 65% on your energy bill.
5. Install natural floor coverings - Choose floor coverings that
are made of renewable materials such as sisal, seagrass, bamboo,
pure wool or coir (coconut). Nylon and acrylic carpets are petroleum
based.
6. Motion sensor – Install motion sensor lights outside so you
don’t have to waste power by leaving lights on constantly.
7. Front loading washing – When replacing your washing machine
choose a front loading variety with a high star energy rating. Front
loaders use less water and are more energy efficient.
8. Compost – Create a space in your garden for compost. You can
buy a compost bin from most hardware stores or simply create your
own.
9. Think about windows – If you’re renovating your home or
replacing windows make sure you consider how appropriate glazing and
awnings will maximise winter sun and reduce summer heat.
10. Landscape with natives – Landscape your garden with native
plants, trees and grasses wherever possible. Native plants require
less water and have the added bonus of attracting native birds and
animals into your garden.
11. Use compact fluorescent light globes – They last 8 times
longer than normal incandescent light globes and generate far less
heat.
12. Choose green paints – When decorating avoid standard acrylic
paints or wallpaper as they are PVC (polyvinyl chloride) based.
Instead opt for a natural plant based paint or a low volatile
organic compound (VOC) paint.
13. Composting toilet – If your toilet needs replacing
investigate installing a composting variety. If you’re sticking to
regular sewerage, then make sure your new toilet is a 3/6 litre dual
flush variety.
14. Choose second hand – When renovating or decorating
investigate using second hand furniture items and building
materials. Recycled goods are often cheaper and come with the warmth
and character that we all want in our homes.
15. Don’t forget pot plants – Indoor potted plants add
atmosphere, generate oxygen and help to eliminate potentially
harmful volatile organic compounds.
