Sustainability

The sustainability of your home, and your living environment need to be carefully considered throughout the building process. From the initial planning stages of your home, right through to the materials you use and the trees you plant. It's something that may take a little extra time now, but you will reap the rewards in the years to come.

“A sustainable home is one that ‘you can sustain and it, in turn, will sustain you’.”

Brian Tromop, Manager Monitoring and Research EECA Wellington

Planning

  • Take advantage of the way your section faces, and your home's orientation to the sun.
  • Understand whether other properties shade you, and which direction does the prevailing wind come from.
  • Plan your deck or pergola along north and westerly facades for optimum outdoor living.

Energy Efficiency

  • Place living areas north-facing to optimise sunshine hours and keep your home warm and dry.
  • Minimise windows on the south side to prevent extensive heat loss.
  • Consider the location and size of your windows.
  • Ensure your insulation levels are appropriate for the location.

Materials

  • Use environmentally friendly and durable materials.
  • Install double glazing when appropriate.
  • Minimise construction waste throughout the building process.
  • Minimise use of solvent based finishes.

Appliances/Lighting

  • Install low-energy light fittings and efficient appliances.
  • Consider all heating and ventilation options for your home.
  • Fit timers and thermostats to control your energy usage.
  • Choose an efficient hot water system.

Water Conservation

  • Install water-efficient toilets and low-flow showerheads.
  • Reuse of greywater for irrigation.
  • Undertake rain water harvesting if and where applicable.

Use

  • Aim to create optimal user comfort and health throughout the home.
  • Undertake a maintenance schedule to ensure your home is up kept over time.

Landscape

  • Maximise the use of permeable ground surfaces.
  • Plant and landscape for shade, insulation and privacy.
  • Grow fruit trees and vegetable gardens to encourage sustainable living.