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According to the Australian Burean of Statistics, around 56 per cent of Australia's greenhouse gas emissions are generated from the home. While it is important that we pressure business and government for sustainable initiatives, some of the easiest changes can be made in our own dwellings. From simple lifestyle changes such as adopting the Green Pages Top 50 tips to a more substantial investment in your home's design features.

For many, building a sustainable home may seem too challenging, too daunting or just not feasible. Many people claim 'we can't afford it', 'I already own a home (and am still paying it off!)', or 'I'm renting'; these are all ready made excuses that make even the most die-hard greenie resistant to making a more substantial investment in a sustainable home.

'Money is always one of the major impediments to investing in a sustainable home,' says Julien Laclave, renewable energy promotions officer for Australian and New Zealand Solar Energy Society (ANZES). A green home can save a family thousands of dollars a year. 'We can't force people to invest in a sustainable renovation or a new home, but we can show them that it really pays off.' Reduced energy bills from renewable energy sources and more comfortable living conditions that don't require artificial heating or cooling are just some of the benefits of a sustainably designed home.

Lacave is also the project manager of the ANZES Sustainable House Day, a nationwide event that showcases a number of sustainable homes to the public. This year, over 100 homes were on display and visitors could speak directly with the owners and get first hand information about the home and its sustainable features. Lacave finds that many attendees come to sources ideas for their own projects. 'People who visit the homes find it very inspiring. It's very unique to be able to talk with the residents,' he says.
So what's behind good green design?

Essentially, building a 'green home' is to ensure a house is as 'self sustaining' as possible. Key features include minimizing energy use, rainwater harvesting, managing waste water disposal and even sustaining its inhabitants with a lush green garden. Renowned celebrities such as Csate Blanchett have brought popularity to green residences. Sustainable home design is reaching the mainstream. People are realizing eco homes make good sense. Households can lower their energy bills by as much as 50 per cent and save on their water bills. Green homes stay comfortable throughout the year without the aid of artificial heating and cooling, which make them a real pleasure to live in. 'A sustainable house is just a house that is well designed and cleverly thought out', says Lacave.

For more information:

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