Sustainable Homes - Options & Training

Print Page

Wooden bungalows

Wooden bungalows

There are many improvements that can be done to make a house more sustainable. Some improvements can be done immediately and are cost-free; others will take longer and require more investment. Many improvements are applicable for renovations as well as for new projects.

Courses are available for Wellington homeowners, tenants, and building sector professionals to make their homes sustainable.

Sustainability Options

  • Insulate walls, ceiling and under floor to aid heating and save on energy costs.
  • Install double-glazed windows.
  • Utilise the sun. Orientate a new house for maximum sunshine, install solar water-heating, and consider passive heating options. Talk to your architect for further ideas.
  • Select appliances with high energy efficiency ratings. Swap regular light bulbs for eco bulbs. Design for maximum natural light to reduce artificial lighting.
  • Choose non-toxic building materials. Look for the Environmental Choice tick of approval. Source materials locally, to reduce the environmental impact of transportation.
  • Install a rainwater collection tank. Choose water-efficient appliances and low-flow sanitary fittings.
  • Minimise waste and recycle where possible, especially during the demolition and construction phases.
  • Use renewable electricity sources where possible, by generating onsite (for example, by installing a small-scale wind turbine or micro-hydro system) or by choosing a power company that generates from renewable sources.
  • Build with comfort and the future in mind, particularly if this is the house you plan to grow old in when good indoor/outdoor access will be a key requirement.
  • Choose native and local plantlife for gardens and landscaping.

Training

Building Biology & Ecology Institute

The Building Biology and Ecology Institute offers courses and workshops for people interested in building their own eco-home, and for builders wanting to focus on healthy and ecologically sound building practices. Students can study by correspondence for the Certificate in Ecological Building and Design. Course materials are also available to people who want to study informally. Building Biology and Ecology Institute website.

Building Biology and Ecology Institute website

Victoria University

Victoria University offers a degree paper in Sustainable Architecture that is an introduction to the ideas, issues and concepts of sustainable architecture. As part of course work, students complete projects looking at ways to make new materials from waste, particularly construction and demolition waste. The course is available to second-year Architecture and Design students. Online Course Catalogue - Architecture - Victoria University website.

Online Course Catalogue - Architecture - Victoria University website

Related Links

 

Department Details:
Strategy

Terms & Conditions Site Awards Site Feedback
Print Page Top