thisplace.com.au - Being Green - What does being green mean?

Everything we do has an environmental impact. Usually that impact is small, however, when all our small impacts are added together the total impact can be quite substantial. So, by becoming aware of our own impacts, and those of others, we can start to make a difference.

Before you begin buying, building or renovating your 'green' home, think about some basic points that might help you make a decision.

Choosing a location

What was the site previously used for?
Is the site part of an existing settlement?
What about current and future industrial or agricultural development?
Are local shops, place of work and community facilities within easy walking distance?
What natural resources have been left on site?
Does the site allow a home design to make best use of the local climate?
How much of the site is covered in water resistant material like concrete, bitumen or pavers?
Are adjacent blocks and access ways clustered to promote community development?
How high is the risk of a bushfire?

Site Works

Will earthworks be kept to a minimum?
How much vegetation remains on the site?
Will erosion and sediment control methods be used?
Can shading vegetation be retained on the western side?

Home Design

Do you have the right people advising you?
Would renovation suit your purpose?
Is the home as small as possible to meet your needs?
Is the home built to last?
Does the design allow for future changes?
Does the home design take full advantage of the site?
Are the rooms located to make best use of local conditions?
Has the home been designed to make best use of 'passive' heating and cooling systems?
Are both the roof and walls well insulated?
Is the western side well protected from the afternoon sun?
Are the northern windows shaded in a way that keeps the summer sun out but allows the winter sun in?
Has the best use been made of natural light?
Are the windows in the right place and of the right type to catch breezes?
Will each room have enough ventilation?
Are the roof and external walls a light colour?
Is the overall energy efficient?
How well do both the design and materials insulate noise?
Are all of the design requirements consistent with the law?

Materials

Refuse, Reduce, Reuse, Recycle is a useful memory aid when considering the purchase of materials. Remember, when you throw something away, there is no such thing as 'away'.

Furnishings

Do the furnishings have low gas emissions?
Do the windows have heavy curtains?
Do the furnishings have a recycled content?

Appliances

Is the most cost effective electricity tariff being used?
Are low energy appliances installed?
Are the appliances as small as possible for your needs?
What energy sources are available?
Are low energy light globes installed?
What about motion detectors for turning lights on and off?
Is a clothesline installed?
Does the refrigerator use non CFC gases?
Are appliances located in the best position?
Does the home need extra heating and cooling?
How many appliances use a 'stand-by' mode?

Using Water

Is the hot water system located as close as possible to the bathroom/shower?
Can you control the temperature of the hot water?
Are the hot water pipes insulated?
Is a solar hot water system installed?
Are dual flush toilets, low flow taps and shower heads (also called water efficient or flow controlled installed?

The answers to these questions plus loads more information on how to have a "Green Home" can be found in the "ask the green question" brochure from Queensland Department of Housing in conjunction with Energex, QMBA, SEQ Libraries, Brisbane City Council, GW Homes.

For further information a booklet can be obtained from Queensland Department of Housing.