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HERE’STHEGOODNEWS
Eco-status can be improved painlessly with
relative ease but still being affordable. If the
budget allows, we can utilise the luxury of an
Environmental Assessment (Impact) Study, but
equally we can get far with common sense and
proper planning to improve our standing.
BUILDING STRUCTURE
We cannot change the wall, roof or structure
of the building but a few adaptations will make
a difference.
✔ Applying sun-reflective film screen on north
and west facing windows will reduce air-
conditioningusage.✔ Placing plants in strategic places can
improve cooling. Ponds or pools facing
the prevailing winds will lower the ambient
temperature by a few degrees due to
evaporation. Natural ventilation must also
bea priority.✔ Post-construction thermal insulation can
easilybeinstalled.✔ Air-conditioners and appliances in guest
rooms can be activated with access keys,
reducing unnecessary usage.Electricity/energysaving
✔ If at all feasible convert to renewable energy,
e.g. solar (with generator backup) or even
wind. Important to note, when converting to
solar, store the battery and generator in a
safeplace.✔ Convert ALL lighting to energy-efficient LED
lighting and install motion sensor lighting in
lowtrafficareas.✔ When needed and practical, replace all
applianceswithenergy-efficientmodels.✔ Install solar lamps in the garden and
walkways and use good quality units – the
cheaponesperformpoorlyanddonotlast.✔ Install solar motion sensor lights at game
water holes. Apart from wasting energy,
permanent light at the water holes can add
to light pollution and is potentially irritating.The eco-pool positioned to face the prevailing winds
and therefore lowering the ambient temperature.