25 Oct 2024
By Carl Dodd

Keeping your home cosy and energy efficient as the nights draw in

affordable warmth, air quality, Carl Dodd, circular economy, damp, draught-proofing, energy efficiency, energy sufficiency, floor insulation, heat pumps, housing, KLB – Scottish NZC, lifestyle transformation, loft insulation, low impact, low carbon living, mould, Net Zero Carbon, PRL, Property Revolutions Ltd., reduce carbon footprint, Retrofit PRL, solar array, solar panel, sustainability, sustainable living, ventilation, weatherproof
How to prepare for an energy-efficient autumn/winter season As the cooler months set in across the UK, there's no better time to ensure your home is ready to combat the autumn and winter chill. Retrofitting an older home with energy-efficient upgrades not only helps to keep it warm, but also reduces heating costs and carbon emissions. The benefits of an energy-efficient home A well-prepared home is vital for enduring the colder months, and retrofitting can yield multiple advantages: Lower Energy Bills: efficient insulation and heating systems reduce reliance on constant heating, keeping bills manageable. Increased Comfort: insulation and draught-proofing retain…
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14 Aug 2024
By Carl Dodd

A greener journey from Cambridge to London

air pollution, air quality, Carl Dodd, circular economy, ecosystem, electric vehicle, energy efficiency, energy sufficiency, EV, lifestyle transformation, low impact, low carbon living, mindfulness, Net Zero Carbon, one planet living, PRL, Property Revolutions Ltd., rechargeable, reduce carbon footprint, Retrofit PRL, sustainability, sustainable living
The UK's first electric coach service In a significant leap towards sustainable travel, FlixBus has launched the UK's first electric coach service, connecting Cambridge and London. This initiative, running a 124-mile round trip, is part of a six-week trial that could reshape the future of long-distance travel in the UK. With the world increasingly aware of the environmental impact of transportation, this electric service is not just about convenience; it's a step towards reducing carbon emissions and improving public health. Mitigating health risks Carbon emissions from traditional diesel-powered coaches contribute significantly to air pollution, releasing harmful pollutants such as nitrogen…
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19 Jul 2024
By Carl Dodd

How to keep your home and garden cool during a heatwave

air pollution, air quality, bees, biodiversity, Carl Dodd, ecosystem, energy efficiency, energy sufficiency, forest bathing, heat pumps, Heatwave, houseplants, housing, humidity, KLB – Scottish NZC, lifestyle transformation, low impact, low carbon living, Nature, one planet living, organic, PRL, Property Revolutions Ltd., rainwater harvesting, reduce carbon footprint, Retrofit PRL, rewilding, Shinrin-yoku, solar array, solar panel, sustainability, sustainable living, ventilation, wind power
The retrofit approach As climate change drives increasingly frequent and intense heatwaves across the UK, keeping our homes cool has become a growing concern. However, the traditional approach of using air conditioning and relying on artificial cooling methods is not only energy-intensive but also environmentally unsustainable. As we are all committed to reducing our carbon footprint and living in harmony with nature, it's good to know that there are greener, more ecological ways to keep our homes cool during a heatwave. In this Blog, I explore the sustainable strategies that focus on making your home and garden work with nature…
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05 Jul 2024
By Carl Dodd

Making your home winter-proof in the summer

affordable warmth, air quality, Carl Dodd, circular economy, damp, draught-proofing, Droughts, energy efficiency, energy sufficiency, floor insulation, heat pumps, housing, KLB – Scottish NZC, lifestyle transformation, loft insulation, low impact, low carbon living, Net Zero Carbon, PRL, Property Revolutions Ltd., reduce carbon footprint, Retrofit PRL, solar panel, sustainability, sustainable living, ventilation
Why summer is the perfect time to retrofit for winter As summer unfolds, it's easy to forget the chills of winter. Yet, this season offers the perfect window to prepare your home for the colder months ahead. Retrofitting your property during the summer can save you time, stress - and money, ensuring your home is not only cosy but also energy-efficient when the temperatures drop. 1. Avoid the winter rush During winter, everyone rushes to fix drafts, insulate roofs, and upgrade heating systems. This surge in demand can lead to higher prices, longer wait times for contractors, and a lot…
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21 Jun 2024
By Carl Dodd

Are you looking to purchase your first electric vehicle?

air quality, Carl Dodd, circular economy, draught-proofing, ecosystem, electric vehicle, energy efficiency, energy sufficiency, EV, KLB – Scottish NZC, lifestyle transformation, low impact, low carbon living, mindfulness, Net Zero Carbon, one planet living, PRL, Property Revolutions Ltd., rechargeable, recycling, reduce carbon footprint, sustainability, sustainable living
10 smart tips for choosing your first electric vehicle Switching to an electric vehicle (EV) is an exciting and forward-thinking decision, but with so many options on the market, choosing your first EV can be overwhelming. Whether you're motivated by environmental concerns, rising fuel prices, or the appeal of cutting-edge technology, selecting the right EV requires careful consideration. Here are 10 smart tips to help you navigate the process and find the perfect electric vehicle for your needs. 1. Understand your driving needs Before diving into the world of electric vehicles, take some time to evaluate your driving habits. Consider…
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05 Apr 2024
By Carl Dodd

How to create a biodiverse and wildlife-friendly garden

air quality, bees, biodiversity, Carl Dodd, ecosystem, KLB – Scottish NZC, lifestyle transformation, Nature, organic, peat restoration, PRL, Property Revolutions Ltd., rainwater harvesting, Retrofit PRL, sustainability, sustainable living
England has recently introduced biodiversity legislation In a world first, England has recently introduced legislation requiring all new developments to boost nature. The biodiversity net gain law (BNG) came into force on February 12th, 2024 and ensures that habitats for wildlife are left in a measurably better state than they were before the development. New habitats must also deliver a 10% biodiversity gain, rather than simply replacing what has been lost. The Royal Institute of British Architects said that the law represents a 'major change' for architects, who would now have to "design with nature". Scotland, Sweden and Singapore are among…
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23 Feb 2024
By Carl Dodd

Why improving indoor air quality matters

air pollution, air quality, Carl Dodd, damp, draught-proofing, energy efficiency, energy sufficiency, houseplants, housing, humidity, KLB – Scottish NZC, lifestyle transformation, mould, Nature, PRL, Property Revolutions Ltd., Retrofit PRL, sustainability, sustainable living, tenants, ventilation
  'All we need is the air that we breathe…' When we think about air pollution, we often picture smog-filled city streets or industrial emissions. However, the quality of the air inside our homes and buildings can also have a significant impact on our health and well-being. Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) refers to the cleanliness and purity of the air within enclosed spaces such as: homes, offices, schools and public buildings. It encompasses factors such as the presence of pollutants, levels of humidity, and ventilation rates. Poor indoor air quality can lead to a range of health issues, including respiratory…
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