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Fifteen ways to “green” your homeApril 2004
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.
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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… 