Green Renovation
Have you heard of Green Renovation? I am sure you have a vague idea of what this buzzword means...nonetheless, here is the definition of Green Renovation.
"Green Renovation describes the renovation which makes use of design techniques and construction materials which creates a healthy and sustainable interior environment for environment conscious homeowners by:
■ Encouraging energy efficiency and;
■ Conserving resources."
So ultimately, you are playing a part in helping our Planet Earth by reducing your carbon footprint.
Ok, maybe not all of you is into this “environmental responsibility” thingy. Nonetheless, do read on because Green Renovation does bring about REAL tangible benefits. :)
So what are these tangible advantages?
■ Reduction of Cost
The more energy efficient, the more monthly utility bills will be reduced.
■ Improved Health
Alternative less toxic paint and floor finishes are critical to the well being of the home dwellers. This means reduced medical bills too as a cleaner living environment translates to healthier living especially for people with allergies.
Okay I am sold. But does going Green mean I have to spend more?
Yes. In fact besides spending more, you might have to spend more effort to plan and purchase more energy efficient home appliances, more environmental friendly materials such as less toxic paint, floor finishes (with low VOC paint, or water-based polyurethane) etc. However, bear in mind that although some home appliances and materials may be costly, consider them as upfront sunk costs as the value of going green (i.e. both direct and indirect savings) will only be achieved over some time.
Humm....I am new to this. So where should I start?
You can start planning your Green Renovation with your Interior Designer or Contractor with the following area of focus - just remember the 3Rs:
■ Reduce energy usage
Make your home carbon neutral with the right insulation, heating & cooling systems, window coverings and energy efficient appliances.
For instance, natural gas is a greener alternative to electricity as electricity is produced from fossil fuels such as coal In addition, transmission losses for gas are significantly lower than electricity and the heat produced for a given unit of energy is greater. Nonetheless, remember that natural gas is still a non-renewable fossil fuel in the same way that coal and oil are. Where available, renewable forms of energy such as roof mounted solar panels should be seen as preferred alternative. However, unfortunately this is not a common feature in HDB flats in Singapore.
Nonetheless, fret not. You can focus in reducing your total energy consumption by:
- Installing electricity efficient appliances such as air conditioner, refrigerator, TV etc;
- Ensuring your windows are well insulated to keep out the blistering heat;
- Switching to LED fittings for lights fixtures.
A well insulated, energy efficient home should be able to achieve average power consumption figures of 5-10kWh/day across the year.
■ Reduce and conserve water usage
Water can be collected from roof with the use of rain water tanks, grey water systems, water saving fittings. Unfortunately - again - these are not a common feature for HDB flats in Singapore.
However, you can focus in reducing your total water consumption by:
- Choosing water efficient cycles for dishwashers and washing machines;
- Installing water efficient appliances such as washing machines, toilets, dishwashers etc.
■ Reuse & Recycle
Lastly, you can consider re-using existing materials, fixtures for your renovation. For instance, incorporating an interesting old wall feature, or recycling the old furnitures as part of the interior design for your new place.
Finally, here are some useful links if you want to find out more:
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