BENEFITS OF A SUSTAINABLE HOME
A sustainable home has less impact on the environment, but not at a cost to the occupiers.
You can make your home sustainable and reduce its impact on the surrounding environment in many ways.
THE PROBLEM
Each year, homes account for almost 30% of New Zealand's electricity consumption and are major contributors to greenhouse gas emissions. Residential gardens are often a source of invasive non-native species that replace unique New Zealand fauna and flora.
HOW WILL YOU BENEFIT FROM A SUSTAINABLE HOME
COMFORT
A sustainable home is designed to fit the occupants’ needs and adapt to their changing requirements.
HEALTH
Asthma, headaches, eczema and sneezing fits are linked to moulds and other toxins found in most households.
Damp homes are a key factor in respiratory problems such as asthma, colds and flu, according to Otago University research.
While the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (EECA) says about 45% of New Zealand homes are too damp, technology can help eliminate the toxins, particulates and excessive moisture that cause respiratory diseases.
WARMTH
The Building Research Association of New Zealand (BRANZ) found that about 30% of New Zealand homes are colder than World Health Organisation recommended minimum temperatures (16°C in bedrooms, 18°C in living areas).
Sustainable homes use the sun’s energy, capturing heat for healthy, comfortable inside temperatures. A fully insulated house uses 50% less energy for heating than an uninsulated house.
Otago University research showed that householders in insulated homes took fewer sick days and visited their doctor less often than those living in houses without insulation.
COST
Insulation, smart heating options, and energy- and water-efficient appliances can make homes cheaper to run. The payback period for investing in insulation may be as little as 1 year for a simple hot water cylinder wrap, or 3 years for ceiling insulation.
INVESTMENT
Green homes also appear to be a wise investment. A survey conducted by Realestate.co.nz suggests that one in 10 people are prepared to pay up to 25% more for a sustainable home. Banks are starting to offer ‘green mortgages’ providing customers with a package of discounts on eco-friendly home products because they predict that these homes will better retain value over time.
Poll: Do you think NZ should ban social media for youth?
The Australian Prime Minister has expressed plans to ban social media use for children.
This would make it illegal for under 16-year-olds to have accounts on platforms including TikTok, Instagram, Facebook and X.
Social media platforms would be tasked with ensuring children have no access (under-age children and their parents wouldn’t be penalised for breaching the age limit)
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Do you think NZ should follow suit? Vote in our poll and share your thoughts below.
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85.6% Yes
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13.2% No
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1.1% Other - I'll share below
What's your favourite recipe for courgettes?
Kia ora neighbours. If you've got a family recipe for courgettes, we'd love to see it and maybe publish it in our magazine. Send your recipe to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the mag, you will receive a free copy of our January 2025 issue.
BLACKHAWK CORGI RACES SUNDAY NOV 17
Who is the fastest Corgi in NZ?
This will be decided on Sunday, November 17 at Belmont Domain, Lower Hutt with racing starting at 2pm.
Thirty Pembroke and Cardigan Corgis will take to the 60 metre track for racing like no other.
Competition comes from as far away as Auckland and Whanganui and if you want to stretch it a little - Scotland - with the very recent arrival of Skye and his owners from the other side of the world.
The youngest to compete is 7 month old, Atlas whilst Bonnie at 14 years is part of the seniors (nine and over) event.
Spectators very welcome to this sixth annual championship organised by the Wellington Welsh Corgi Club.
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