The word sustainable has got a beautiful ring to it. Given the age we live in, it is natural for our homes to be defined by terms like energy-efficiency, eco-friendliness, and sustainability. The last one in particular needs to be stressed upon whether you are going for a full-fledged new design or home renovation.
Check for the toxicity parameters
For achieving home sustainability, start with checking the toxicity parameters. In this pursuit, those finishes which have low toxicity are considered good. Low and zero VOC (volatile organic compound) paint finishes became so prominent only because the VOC compounds present in the paint solutions of the past posed a serious health threat. The compounds of present day pose no such threat and are considered really effective in combating toxicity.
Aim for the local designers
Look for what the local designers have produced. It has two advantages. One, they know the design aesthetics of your locality and hence produce something that is in congruence with your area. Two, and more importantly, they seek local raw materials in many cases and from sustainability perspective these are more suitable because they are adept with the temperature and humidity quotient of the locality.
Vertical walls
Green walls or vertical walls work brilliantly. They reduce the sick building syndrome and improve the indoor air quality. Also, they keep the room cooler than usual and hence reduce the pressure on air conditioners. They soak in harmful bacteria and hence are a perfect foil for your indoor climate.
Thermal efficiency
Double glazed doors and windows are considered effective for thermal efficiency and also reduce your monthly utility bills.
LED light fixtures
While we are talking of home sustainability, the recent efforts of LED light technology cannot be overstated. They offer sharp and penetrative light and last a fair deal more than the incandescent (phased out) and fluorescent lights. Also, they are extremely handy keeping in mind the need for eco-friendliness. Presently, many state-of-art alternatives like Philips Hue are selling in the market. They can help you get the best of ambient lighting for yourself; both as retrofits and from-the-ground-up variants.
Gardening is therepeutic and promotes sustainability
It may not be news to you that gardening is therapeutic in nature. If you plant a patch of green in your garden, not only will it offer greater relaxation to your senses (and a great pursuit to you) but also help your home’s climate a great deal.
Solar panels
Sustainability and solar power are equated quite often and not without reason. Thankfully, we live in a country that gets a fair dose of sunlight. Solar panels on our rooftops (and elsewhere) help us extract the best out of our renewable resources and cuts our dependence on fossil fuels.
These are small ideas but together they can make a mighty difference to how sustainable your home is.