How to live more sustainably at home

We all have a part to play in preserving our planet and protecting the environment. At Newett Homes, we build new houses fit for modern living, meaning they’re more efficient, use less energy and create fewer emissions. We’re already fitting some of our homes with air source heat pumps which are a much more efficient alternative to central heating.

Once you’ve moved into your new Newett Home, with the above benefits, you yourself can begin to implement even more sustainable practices at home.

Collect rainwater

Whilst we wouldn’t recommend drinking the rainwater, collecting it can reduce the amount of tap water you use for other purposes, such as watering plants in the garden, a bird bath or for cleaning. As an added bonus, it’s free to use!

Growing your own fruit and vegetables

Another use for that rainwater you’re now collecting. By dedicating a small space in your home or garden, you can begin to grow your own foods. Outdoors, you can grow anything from tomatoes, strawberries or even begin an apple tree. Indoors is also suitable for small plants such as chilli peppers or herbs.

Use up your leftovers

Don’t throw food away. Save up your unused and leftover food (if safe to do so) and get creative in the kitchen. If you’re a family, it’s a great way to get the children involved. You could even create a recipe book, adding a new entry each time you use the leftovers.

This not only saves food from going to waste, but it saves you money and means visiting the supermarket less often, thereby reducing the potential for carbon emissions.

Dry your clothes outside

Most people, where possible, do this already. However, nowadays, it’s extremely tempting to throw those difficult pieces of clothing straight into the dryer. If you want to be more sustainable, try avoid using the dryer if possible, even in winter.

When winter comes around you can still dry your clothes, just inside. There is a range of clothes hangers you can buy for a fraction of the cost and with fewer emissions. If you must use the dryer, ​​ensure the filter is cleaned regularly for efficiency and lower energy consumption.

Create a compost heap

Useful for gardening and growing those vegetables, a good compost heap is another sustainable way to live. By putting food waste such as fruit and vegetables into the compost heap, they’ll eventually decompose and provide your soil with nutrients. This will keep your garden healthy and avoid unnecessary landfill collections.

Upcycle furniture

Instead of buying new, you can acquire furniture second-hand and upcycle it the way you want. You can find furniture ideal for upcycling either at charity shops, from friends or even online from people who are looking to give it away.

This can be a fun and challenging experience that adds character to your home and gives you a sense of achievement. Not only that, but you’re helping to reduce waste and reducing emissions.

Don an extra layer of clothing

With great insulation, you’ll be surprised how warm your house can be in the colder months of the year. However, if you do feel the cold, always look for an extra layer of clothing first before turning the heating on. Again, this saves money, energy and the environment.