by Jemma Pearson Going green starts in the home, and if you are building a new abode, there are plenty of ways to create a sustainable design. If you are keen to learn more about creating an environmentally friendly home from scratch, read on.

On the block

Building a sustainable building starts with choosing a block of land. Energy-efficient homes are designed to interact with the natural environment, taking  in the orientation of the land and the breezes and using natural ventilation and shade. Designing the home for the allotment, rather than choosing the allotment for the home, is the way to go. Design a building that will provide maximum shade in the summer, gain warmth from the winter sun and draw maximum daylight throughout the year to reduce the need for electric lighting.

Material world

In a sustainable home, building materials are chosen because they have minimal environmental impact and require the least amount of energy to manufacture and transport, install and maintain. When shopping for building materials, choose renewable products and recycled timbers and make sure your builder recycles and reuses building waste. Paint and flooring, adhesives and cabinetry that are low-allergen and low-VOC and will offer healthy air quality inside the home and reduce greenhouse gas emissions are the way to go. 

Close to home

Engaging local tradespeople and sourcing locally produced materials and products not only supports the local Sunshine Coast economy, but also reduces the carbon footprint of your build.

Get regular

Thermal mass is the ability of a material to absorb energy. In environmental building design, thermal mass is an important concept to keep in mind as you will want the mass of the home to flatten out the temperature fluctuations outside. Dense materials inside a building help to keep the temperature inside the home comfortable. Bulk insulation in roofs and walls is also vital to regulate the temperature inside the home, reducing the need for electrical heating and cooling sources.

Easing off

Reducing the amount of energy used  in the home is vital. Solar heating is essential, but passive solar heating (achieved by the clever placement of windows) is just as important. Installing energy-efficient lighting is the next step. Collect rainwater with tanks and reuse greywater on the garden. Installing greywater recycling systems as part  of the internal plumbing is a great way to manage this precious resource. Low-flow showers, taps and mixers that reduce water usage are also important. Plant drought-tolerant gardens and use composting systems outside.

The right appliances

Install ceiling fans and use natural ventilation rather than relying on air-conditioners and heaters. When shopping for large appliances, such as fridges and washing machines, ensure that you buy products that have high star ratings.