Net Zero Carbon homes are gaining in popularity

Built to last As a background to Carl Dodd's personal Scottish border NZC build (based on an adapted traditional vernacular design), we wanted to write about the concept of Net Zero Carbon homes, and explore why you could consider building one, discuss the benefits of living in such a home, and provide practical tips on making your current home more energy efficient. (c) Carl Dodd / PRL - KLB - Scottish Net Zero Carbon New Build (on-going) If Carl's build has inspired you to build your own sustainable home, or make energy-efficient upgrades to your existing home, every step toward…
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How to make 2024 a greener year

A New Year brings a whole host of lifestyle opportunities The New Year gives us all time to reflect on our lifestyles and consider how we can make positive changes for the planet. Green New Year's resolutions not only benefit the environment, but can also lead to a healthier, more sustainable way of life. In this Blog, we'll explore a variety of creative and impactful resolutions for 2024. These are my New Year Resolutions for 2024: 1 - I would like to re-do my Carbon Footprint using the WWF Carbon Footprint Calculator (https://footprint.wwf.org.uk) - and review my Net Zero Carbon…
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Christmas trees: real vs. fake – which is the more environmentally friendly option?

The big question... Real Christmas trees may be better for the environment, but, you may be asking, aren't artificial or fake Christmas trees a better option? No, just because they are re-used year after year, it does not mean that they are more sustainable. This is due to the typical rules of sustainability not applying when it comes to the humble Christmas tree. The Christmas tree debate on real vs. artificial (and which benefits the environment more), has been ongoing for decades. The debate is not helped by the fact that artificial Christmas trees can last many years, if they're…
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Our 2050 net zero target: watered down or more realistic?

  All change… for now at least As PM Rishi Sunak has recently announced plans to weaken some of the government's green commitments, we take a look at what this means. The new-look plans include a delay on banning the sale of new petrol and diesel cars, and policies being scrapped that would force landlords to upgrade efficiency in their homes. Even before these latest changes though, the UK was being criticised for falling behind in its efforts to reach "net zero" by 2050. This date marks a key international target intended to avoid the worst impacts of climate change. Mr Sunak…
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How rainwater harvesting can help to conserve energy

Rainwater harvesting: an eco-friendly practice In our pursuit of sustainability, it is essential to explore innovative ways to conserve precious resources and reduce our ecological footprint. Rainwater harvesting offers a simple, yet effective, solution. By collecting and utilising rainwater, homeowners can reduce their reliance on mains water, which often uses significant energy for treatment and distribution. Understanding rainwater harvesting and its benefits Rainwater harvesting is the practice of collecting and storing rainwater that falls on rooftops and other surfaces. The collected rainwater can then be utilised for various non-potable purposes, such as watering gardens, flushing toilets, and washing clothes. This environmentally friendly…
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How rewilding and peat restoration play a vital part in achieving Sustainability

  Two key practices that contribute significantly to sustainability In the pursuit of achieving a sustainable future, it is crucial to explore and implement various approaches that restore and protect our ecosystems. Rewilding involves restoring natural habitats and reintroducing native species, while peat restoration focuses on rehabilitating degraded peatlands. Why rewilding is so important Rewilding plays a vital role in achieving sustainability by fostering biodiversity, improving ecosystem resilience, and mitigating the impacts of climate change. By creating larger and interconnected habitats, rewilding helps to restore natural ecological processes, support endangered species, and enhance ecosystem services such as pollination, water purification…
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