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Sustainable
Building
What are Eco-friendly/Green building solutions?
Eco-friendly, or ecological, construction is building
a structure that is beneficial or non-harmful to the
environment, and resource efficient. Otherwise
known as green building, this type of construction
is efficient in its use of local and renewable
materials, and in the energy required to build it,
and the energy generated while being within it.
Eco-friendly construction has developed in
response to the knowledge that buildings have an
often negative impact upon our environment and
our natural resources. This includes transporting
materials hundreds or thousands of miles, which
has a negative impact in the energy required to
transport them, and also in emissions of
hazardous chemicals from a poorly designed
building that creates, and traps them.
Since the Second World War, it has become a
tradition to build homes quickly and cheaply.
Quality and natural materials were rejected and
materials designed for more profitable short-term
returns were used. Cheaper UPVC is still favoured
over wooden windows, despite it's shorter life
span and the pollution caused by it's production
and disposal.
Cement is now favoured over lime because it sets
quicker, although it traps water and exaggerates
the decay of stone and brick. Gypsum plasters
and plasterboards are also used in the renovation
of old houses with solid walls because they are a
cheaper alternative to traditional lime or clay
plasters but often fail if damp penetrates old walls.
Everyday people are using cheap paints, MDF and
carpet adhesives in their homes, all of which emit
gas and dangerous chemicals, which affect our
health. The following are just a few alternatives
that will help the environment as well as improving
your energy rating.
Using alterative natural wool insulation such as
Warmcell or Thermafleece instead of manmade
products.
Recommending and purchasing timber from
sustainable source.
Using solvent-free paints and varnishes
(Natural paints)
Advising, designing and installing rainwater
harvesting systems to recycle your rain or grey
water waste.
Affordability is key to the environmental challenge
as well as knowing how best to save energy within
your own home. There's a wide range of products
giving you the choice if you wish to cut your CO
2
emissions and save money as well as be providing
a healthier environment for you and your children
to enjoy. However, before you run out and cover
your roof with wind turbines and solar panels to
generate your own electricity, make sure you get
the basics right first and insulate your home
beforehand.
Please let us know if you require more information
regarding `green building' and we'll gladly discuss
it with you.