By Justine Olivier
Going green has permeated every sphere of life, and it’s not surprising that even in the building industry materials used have gone green and builders everywhere have become environmentally conscious.
Ricky de Agrela, of RDA Properties, says that “the first step is to ask how best to make use of the naturally available resources – light, heat and ventilation”.
One should ensure that ventilation is adequate throughout the home and is maintained to avoid air conditioners and heaters. Nico van der Meulen, of Nico van der Meulen Architects, concurs saying that his company firmly believes in passive design, so the very first thing they look at is orientation, sun control and insulation.
Other simple things to keep in mind which can greatly enhance the eco nature of your household is to utilise sanitaryware with water saving mechanisms such as double flushing toilets. Electrosonic SA provides a complete line of environmental control products with a forward-thinking approach to energy conservation technology. Renovating and replacing existing windows with high rising double volume windows allows a plethora of light in thereby reducing the need to fill the home with an unnecessary lighting system.
Eco renovations save you more money in the long run, if done right the first time round. Hudu’s range of environmentally sound sustainable solar products is meeting the increased demand for eco-friendly devices. Solar power is reducing dependence on electricity, and not only alleviates the country of its energy crisis but saves you money too.
Insulation is another alternative to make the environment a top priority. Insulation avoids unnecessary and expensive ways of generating energy and heat in your home in the colder seasons. Professionals at Hudu say: “Solar panels can produce energy for 25 years or more – far longer than it takes to pay off the installation costs. Installing a residential solar energy system reduces global warming, lowers your carbon footprint and contributes to a greener future.”
