The fight against climate change has meant that sustainable houses are growing in popularity. But what makes for a sustainable home?
The challenges of building brand new homes while being considerate towards the environment are numerous. However, businesses are starting to build structures of high environmental standards, showing positive signs towards a move to sustainable construction. The most essential, and well known, element of a sustainable building is of course the minimization of the leftover waste from the construction process: for instance, Persimmon has pledged to reduce their greenhouse gas footprint. They have also successfully recycled nearly all of the waste accumulated during their construction process, by employing modern methods of manufacturing, cost effective technology and eco-friendly building materials. These new ideas will contribute to high levels of thermal efficiency, reducing power expenditures and carbon pollutants and, essentially, supporting the fight against climate change.
One fundamental aspect of sustainable construction is certainly the investment in the nature and bio-diversity surrounding the new movements. The ultimate goal is to develop eco-friendly homes that are power efficient. However, some sustainable home features include simply utilising eco friendly materials when building and taking steps to protect the surrounding land. Kier is continuosly implementing environmental features into advancements by partnering with various charities and investing in projects like the protection of hedgehogs, the re-homing of fish and the creation of safe and secure habitats for bees. Promoting and preserving the wildlife surrounding their brand new construction projects goes a long way in helping to minimise the impact new constructions can have on the environment, benefiting the wildlife as well as the surrounding community.
Being responsible about the planet by supporting the advancement of smart living, which accommodates to the people’s needs and is beneficial for the biodiversity surrounding it, can offer financial perks to the property owners. Cala Company set out to manage responsibly the health and safety of both the workers and the residents, acknowledging that sustainability entails the construction of properties that incorporate built-in safety features, offering comfort and ease for the individuals living in them, while likewise reducing the need for renovations down the line. Lowering costs related to power use, water use and upkeep will eventually translate in more economically sustainable accomodation in the long run. Through sustainable house design, they aim to influence not just the way of building but also the way the properties will be managed throughout their life cycle. Cautious planning eliminates the need for big renovations later on. The combination of green design methods and cutting-edge technology will also minimise the running costs by developing enjoyable living environments and improving home values. Ultimately, the more eco-friendly the property is, the more cost-effective it will be in the future. Eco friendly and cost-effective: a winning combo!