As the world grapples with environmental challenges, the need for sustainable practices in all aspects of our lives becomes increasingly urgent. One significant area where we can make a difference and a positive impact on the environment is in our homes. From building sustainable new homes to updating existing homes with sustainable features, here are 5 ways to incorporate eco-friendly practices into your home and be more environmentally conscious in your day-to-day life.

1. Prioritise energy efficiency

Up to 85% of the total energy consumption and CO2 emissions in a home come from heating, cooling, ventilation and hot water use. Reducing this figure dramatically is understandably important, both for cost savings and to decrease our carbon footprint.

• Install high-quality insulation to regulate indoor temperatures and reduce the need for excessive heating or cooling.
• Fit energy-efficient double-glazed windows and doors to minimise heat loss.
• Swap out existing lighting for LED with lower energy consumption and longer-lasting bulbs.
• Seal any gaps or cracks in windows, doors, and walls to prevent drafts and improve insulation.
• Consider installing renewable energy sources like solar panels to generate clean, sustainable power.

2. Use sustainable materials

A key factor in the design and building of sustainable homes is the consideration of not only its construction, but also the lifespan and eventual demolition and disposal of the building. Whether you're starting from scratch or retrofitting an existing home, using sustainable materials helps reduce the environmental impact of your home.

• Choose locally sourced materials to support local businesses and reduce transport emissions.
• Use reclaimed or recycled materials for renovations or upgrades to reduce landfill waste.
• Use certified timber from responsibly managed forests to support sustainable forestry practices.
• Consider low-impact materials like bamboo, which grows quickly and requires fewer resources to cultivate.

3. Reduce water wastage

Water conservation is a major part of being environmentally conscious and implementing a few water-saving practices can significantly reduce your home's environmental footprint while saving you money at the same time.

• Install low-flow showerheads and taps and dual-flush toilets to minimise water wastage.
• Incorporate a rainwater harvesting system to use in the garden for irrigation.
• Cut back on watering the garden during the hottest months or at the peak of the day and consider mulching plants instead to retain moisture.
• Fix any leaks promptly to prevent unnecessary water wastage.
• Only run the dishwasher or washing machine when it’s full and take shorter showers!

4. Implement passive design principles

Passive design focuses on harnessing natural elements like sunlight, wind, and thermal mass to regulate temperature and lighting within a home. The key elements include building location and orientation on the site; building layout; window design, insulation and thermal mass. Each element works with the rest to achieve comfortable temperatures and good indoor air quality, while helping reduce energy usage.

• When building new, consider how your home could be sited to maximise exposure to sunlight during the winter months, while providing shade in the summer.
• Incorporating cross-ventilation strategies promotes natural airflow and reduces the need for cooling.
• Using thermal mass materials like concrete or stone during construction helps absorb and store heat and regulate indoor temperatures.

5. Planning for the future

Building sustainable homes goes beyond just initial construction by planning for adaptability into the future so the home remains eco-friendly for the long-term.

• Design with flexibility in mind, allowing for easy integration of new technologies and energy-efficient systems.
• Incorporate a green roof or vertical garden to enhance biodiversity and reduce runoff.
• Invest in durable, long-lasting materials to minimise the need for frequent maintenance and renovations.

A wise investment

Building a sustainable home in New Zealand is not only about making a responsible choice for the environment but it’s also a wise investment in the future. By prioritising eco-friendly practices in the home, Kiwis help create spaces that contribute to a more sustainable and resilient future for generations to come.

To find out about financing a new build home or accessing your equity to finance a renovation and improve your home’s sustainability, talk to a Mortgage Express branded mortgage adviser today.