Buildings are a major source of power consumption and waste generation. According to the UN Environment Programme, the building sector accounts for around 38% of energy-related Carbon Dioxide emissions
This data has prompted the creation of green building standards and certifications to mitigate the environmental impacts.
There is no one-size-fits-all rule for what a sustainable home should be like. That is because there are countless factors that play into a property’s sustainability potential – such as the location, the design, the orientation, the available energy sources and certainly a budget.
However, people looking to buy or build a sustainable home can start their journey by looking for these five features.
- Windows
The quality of windows installed in a house greatly impacts heat conservation. Not only does it provide extra insulation which is a must for keeping heat from escaping during the cold winter months but also better noise reduction for your home. The orientation of the windows to the sun should also be a major factor that needs to considered
- Wastewater Treatment and Reuse
It is vital to conserve freshwater supply, therefore sustainable homes utilise features that minimise water usage. Features like low-flow toilets, sinks, and showerheads and rain collectors go a long way in water conservation
- Recycled and Sustainable building materials
There’s a wealth of ways that pre-used materials can be recycled and incorporated into a home’s design. For example, Beams can be recycled and used for sub-floor structures.
- Solar Energy
The importance of utilising the sun’s rays when considering sustainability cannot be emphasised enough. Solar panels, solar water heating, and orientation to the sun for natural heating are all ways that can effectively utilise solar energy.
- Energy efficient
In this age where It can be difficult at times to keep up with advancements in technology, it is important to look out for energy-efficient features in a sustainable home. For example, If the home is equipped with a solar panel array, ask for a comparison of the home’s electric generation and consumption. Or if there is an availability of a charging outlet in the garage for an electric car.
This is Central to everything Valmark offers, living here means being part of a connected community.
At Valmark, sustainability is of utmost importance and is driven by the top management to deliver environment-friendly projects. The Group is constantly setting examples to shed the conventional ways and integrate more sustainable options,for it is the need of the hour.
