A GUIDE TO SUSTAINABLE LIVING IN THE HOME...

 

RETROFIT YOUR HOUSE

Resource consumption in the average home can be dramatically improved by retrofitting. Retrofitted homes incorporate the very best techniques and technologies of sustainable living at the household level.

SO WHAT CAN YOU DO?

• Refurbish your home to include energy efficient appliances and systems such as double-glazed windows and solar hot-water heating. These can reduce household CO 2 emissions and save you money.

• Install water-efficient appliances and systems such as water-saving shower heads, dual-flush toilets and a rainwater collection system. This can reduce in-house water consumption by up to 37% and reduce your water bill.

• Refurbish rooms using non-toxic materials, fabrics and dyes.

• Use recycled building materials during renovations

• Start an organic garden using composts and mulch, and plant native species

• Implement a recycling program, and purchase products with less packaging and with a higher recycled content

• Refurbish your rooms so they make maximum use of passive solar and thermal energy

• Install grey-water systems, and/or use grey-water on your gardens

Of course, changing or improving one area of your home inevitably affects other areas in your home. By thinking of your home as a 'system' you'll be able to improve the sustainability of your home much more easily, and ensure that your actions within your home truly do reduce the load on the environment.

For more specific information on retrofitting your home, visit our pages on sustainable living in the household. Also, for advice and information on retrofitting in Australia and overseas, visit the links provided below.

FURTHER RESOURCES:

David Suzuki Nature Challenge Newsletter, Energy-Efficient Appliances

EcoCentre Ecohouse

EcoHome

Ecological Homes, EcoNews

Sustainable ABC

www.greenhome.com

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The Sustainable Living Guide links and information provided have been reproduced with permission from the Manningham City Council - Sustainable Living Guide, 2004.