Yes, a large proportion of that is from commercial-scale construction, but 10 percent of it is from the manufacture of building materials. By making sustainable choices, we can all make a difference and play a part in reducing CO2 emissions and creating a greener world for future generations.
Use sustainable building materials
Plastic, steel and glass are so 20th century! Granted, if you are determined to feature those materials in your renovation, there are sustainable variations you can use. Still, in the 2020s, more traditional materials are right back in fashion, and they score high when it comes to sustainability.
Australia has a great tradition of coexisting with nature and craftsmen and manufacturers there have really been leading the way in rediscovering sustainable building materials like stone, rammed earth and even mud. But you don’t need to go so far out on a limb in your choices of sustainable materials.
Timber is a material that never goes out of fashion, especially in the garden where a wooden arbour or gazebo fits right in, even in a mature garden. Make sure it is sourced responsibly from a forest that is sustainable, or better still, use reclaimed timber that already has a story to tell.
Insulation is absolutely vital
Whenever you are working with walls or ceilings, think insulation. It doesn’t matter where you live, insulation helps you reduce the need for AC in hot weather and to cut heating costs in winter.
Good insulation increases thermal efficiency, meaning even if you never switch on AC or heating, the indoor temperature only changes by a handful of degrees from one season to the next.
There are various federal and state incentives to help with the cost of insulation, as well as other sustainable upgrades.
Tankless water heating helps the environment and saves money
Heating water accounts for more energy than cooking, refrigeration and watching TV put together. Most older homes still use a hot water tank, which is highly inefficient, as energy is used heating it and then keeping it at a constant high temperature ready for use.
A tankless system is far better, as it heats water on demand, as and when you need it. Even better, there’s zero risk of running out of hot water, which can be the case if family members enjoy full baths or long showers.
Staying in tune with nature
We mentioned earlier how Australians are leading the way in sustainable living. The above are just a few ways in which we can live in better harmony with nature and contribute towards the global efforts to reduce carbon emissions.