The
Low Carbon Revolutions Starts at Home*
The construction of zero carbon buildings and the
retrofitting of existing buildings offer some of the
most cost-effective and most immediate strategies
in
response to climate change.
The ecovillage at Findhorn has erected 61 ecological
buildings to date and there are ongoing plans for
the continued construction of an ecologically respectful
built environment. TOver the years we have developed
a unique construction system, environmentally sound
and energy efficient. Using natural and non-toxic
materials we have developed a 'breathing wall' structure,
which allows the fabric of a building to interact
beneficially with people to moderate humidity and
air quality. We have also experimented with straw
bale construction, the 'Earthship' system using recycled
car tyres, and remain open to further new and innovative
ecological solutions for the built environment.
The publication of Simply Build Green, the UK's first
technical guide to ecological housing, based on our
own research and experience, has helped the ecovillage
become a major resource for environmental education
locally, nationally and internationally.
|
Ecological
details featured in our buildings include: |
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Use of passive solar features
where possible through orientation and window
layout. |
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Use of solar panels for domestic hot water
heating. |
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A district heating system using a gas condensing
boiler for highest fuel efficiency. |
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Super efficient insulation (U-values of
0.2 watts/m2 C in roof, walls and floors). |
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Low-energy light bulbs throughout. |
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Triple glazing (U=1.65 watts/m2 C). |
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Cellulose insulation (made from recycled
paper). |
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Non-toxic organic paints and wood preservatives
throughout. |
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Boarding manufactured without the use of
toxic glues or resins. |
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Locally grown and harvested timber from
managed forests. |
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Local stone for skirting, patios and pathways. |
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Roofing with natural clay tiles. |
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Innovative 'breathing wall' construction
allowing a controlled exchange of air &
vapour, and eliminating the need for a conventional
vapour barrier. |
| » |
Suspended timber floors for underfloor air
circulation to avoid any possible build-up
of radon gas. |
| » |
Isolating electrical circuits to reduce
electromagnetic field stress. |
| » |
Water conservation (showers, low-flush toilets
and self-closing taps). |
| » |
Collection and recycling of rainwater for
garden use. |
| » |
Shared facilities (laundry, kitchens, lounges)
avoiding unnecessary duplication. |
| » |
Simple timber frame construction and detailing,
suitable for Self Building |
 |
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* Brenda Boardman, Environmental Change Institute,
University of Oxford
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