The Characteristics Of A Sustainable House

Did you know that homes are the largest consumer of electricity and the main contributor to carbon dioxide emissions of up to 30%? Each of us plays a role in helping to achieve our global goals of zero net energy consumption.

Sustainability is the ability to exist and develop without depleting natural resources for the future.

The United Nations has defined sustainable development in the Brundtland Report as a development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.

It assumes that resources are finite and therefore should be used conservatively and carefully to ensure that they are sufficient for future generations without diminishing the quality of life of the present.

A sustainable society must be socially responsible, focusing on environmental protection and dynamic balance in human and natural systems.

In recent years, sustainability has become the main topic in terms of materials and solutions available in almost every industry.

Global warming and, above all, its consequences have caused the largest organizations on the planet to ask important questions about the future of the planet and, implicitly, of humanity.

The focus is not on high-tech technology, but on smart solutions that start with design (so that the house needs as few materials as possible, but also very few repairs), construction (with renewable materials and local teams), and continues with the actual way of living: access to public transport, the use of renewable energy, the lowest possible CO2 footprint of the entire building, etc.

This is also visible in terms of the architecture and construction of the houses, the attention to detail being much greater now. You can find out what sustainable homes really mean and how renewable resources can be used in this article.

At the same time, you will learn more about the changes you can make in your own home to ensure that the environment is right for you and your nature.

Sustainable homes are constructions that have the greatest possible negative impact on the environment. What exactly does that mean? Efficient use of resources, investment in energy systems, and nature-friendly materials, while ensuring comfort in the home.

In most cases, the construction prices of such a house may be higher, but they are amortized over time, because they will be more solid constructions and, implicitly, will need fewer repairs.

The most important thing to keep in mind about sustainable homes

Caring for nature should be important to each of us, and if you want to build a house, it's a good idea to consider a few tips. You will do good to the environment, but also to your own comfort.

The size of the house and its orientation

If you are moving from an apartment to a house, your first reaction will be to want a spacious house with a floor and an attic. Although it seems like a good plan, it is not always environmentally friendly or sustainable.

The reason is simple: a very large space needs more resources for heating and energy. Thus, you will have a high consumption to enjoy comfort. No, we're not saying you should think about a small house, just don't build something that you won't use completely.

In addition, pay close attention to the orientation of the rooms. Talk to the architect and choose the Southeast side (where theoretically the most light is), to have rooms where you need natural light: living room, kitchen, or office.

On the north side, you can position the bedroom, with enough light to rest.

Natural materials used

After you have sketched the space, you have discussed all the details with the architect, it is time to establish the materials. When possible, choose local natural materials from the area where you are building. This detail is important because in practice they will travel a shorter route and, implicitly, will pollute less.

In addition, if you choose quality materials, the construction will be stable for a long time and you will not need to make repairs.

The insulation of the house

In order to save resources and, implicitly, to have a sustainable home, it is essential to insulate each room as well as possible. Beyond the classic variants, you can opt for cork insulation, being a more expensive variant, but more ecological and more practical in the long run.

How to implement sustainable methods if you have already built your home

If you have already built your home and have not chosen even the most sustainable measures, you can still make some positive changes.

Start by replacing regular light bulbs with LED ones. Consumption will decrease, and you will enjoy good resources for nature, but also for your electricity bill.

Use sensors in low traffic areas, such as hallways. It will be much easier for you and at the same time, you will save.

If you change the finish of your house, choose a type of paint with fewer chemicals. You will find special products for both indoor and outdoor (where you can even choose light-repelling variants).

I know that changes may seem difficult, but in this way, you will enjoy your home for as long as possible and, at the same time, you will take more care of your environment.