Local weather change is a rising menace, and our houses contribute considerably to the issue by way of power use and emissions. Nonetheless, as we make our houses extra energy-efficient, we have to guarantee they continue to be wholesome environments. On common within the UK, we spend 90% of our time inside buildings. This makes the indoor air high quality and temperature of our houses extraordinarily necessary. As we take steps to make our houses cosier and save power, we additionally have to be sure that homes stay effectively ventilated.
5 high suggestions
Listed below are 5 straightforward methods to scale back your local weather influence whereas sustaining a snug and secure dwelling. The recommendation comes from researchers within the Health Protection Research Unit (HPRU) in Environmental Change and Health, an organisation funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research. Should you’d prefer to learn extra concerning the background to this recommendation, the hyperlinks will take you to unique analysis from scientists related to the HPRU.
- Ventilate whereas cooking and utilizing fireplaces to take away pollution like carbon monoxide or nitrogen dioxide. See the Adverse Weather and Health Plan Supporting Evidence document for particulars of how severely an ill-ventilated dwelling can have an effect on your well being.
- Improve insulation and scale back drafts to enhance heat in winter and cooling in summer time. Guarantee correct moisture management to forestall mould, by opening home windows or utilizing a dehumidifier. This paper, published in the British Medical Journal explores the dangers and argues for systematic monitoring of indoor air.
- Use shades and open home windows for air flow on scorching days. That is particularly necessary for susceptible teams just like the aged. Guidance on how to Beat the Heat may be discovered on the UKHSA web site.
- Help inexperienced areas and tree planting in your group. City areas with much less vegetation are usually considerably hotter because of the Urban Heat Island (UHI ) effect.
- Make energy-efficient upgrades like double glazing, cavity wall insulation, and strong wall insulation. A number of the most impactful adjustments are outlined in this research paper. It’s additionally necessary to decide on constructing supplies that don’t exacerbate temperature-related dangers. The ebook Urban Overheating and the Impact on Health foregrounds the significance of constructing materials.
There are extra particulars on the entire above within the HPRU’s Healthy Housing workshop report April 2023.
Taking small steps could make an actual distinction. It’s attainable to scale back your local weather influence whereas additionally making a more healthy dwelling. You’ll discover extra tips on energy efficiency on the Power Saving Belief’s web site. With some easy adjustments, we are able to combat local weather change and create a more healthy atmosphere at dwelling.
