Going green

As the UK experienced below average temperatures and above average rainfall for much of the summer, it would be easy to put thoughts of climate change to the back of our minds. However, scorching temperatures and disastrous wildfires across much of the rest of the northern hemisphere indicate that global temperatures are still rising. In the UK, around 22 per cent of carbon emissions come from our homes, so making small changes to reduce energy consumption would add up to a huge reduction in national carbon emissions.

While some changes may involve financial outlay, small changes to your living habits can also help. You may also be eligible for grants to cover some home improvements.

Solar panels

Solar panels generate energy from the sun, which can then be used in your home, or sold back to the national grid. It is an environmentally friendly way to generate electricity and can save money on your energy bills too.

Heating controls

Consider switching to a renewable heating system such as an air source or ground source heat pump. Powered by electricity, they are much more efficient than gas boilers. If this option doesn’t suit, any new boiler installation should at least include heating controls.

Insulation

Making sure the walls, roof, and floors in your home are insulated will cut back on heat wasted. Insulate any exposed hot water pipes, along with your hot water cylinder if you have one. Insulating the building itself will make a bigger difference, with walls a good place to start.

Homes with a cavity wall are the easiest to insulate, while older homes will require solid wall insulation. Loft insulation should be 270mm thick. Check yours is in good condition, and top it up if necessary.

Draught-proofing

Draught-proof gaps around windows and doors, between floorboards or up your chimney. It’s easy to do and, in many cases, doesn’t require a professional.

Low energy lighting

Draught-proof gaps around windows and doors, between floorboards or up your chimney. It’s easy to do and, in many cases, doesn’t require a professional.

Low energy lighting

Modern LED bulbs use 80 to 90 per cent less energy than a traditional lightbulb. Replacing all the bulbs in your home could reduce your carbon dioxide emissions by up to 65kg a year – the equivalent of driving your car around 220 miles.

Source: energysavingtrust.org.uk

Experts in renewable energy solutions

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Adept Renewables are experts in renewable energy solutions.

Based in Poole, and servicing homes and businesses across Dorset, Hampshire and Wiltshire, Adept Renewables is an installer-run company whose reliable staff are MCS and HIES certified heat pump and solar panel installers. They can design, install and maintain renewable energy systems to help make the world a little greener for everyone.

The company specialises in PV solar panels, battery storage, heat pumps and maintenance, so is well-equipped to help you find the right renewable energy option for your home or business that will not only

save you money on your energy bills but will be a long-term asset for your property. Solar panel prices are competitive and start from £4,000 for 4KW solar panel systems.

Once you’ve installed your renewable energy system, you’ll need to keep it maintained for maximum benefit. Adept Renewables can help with a one-off visit or a maintenance package for £24.99 per month.

Contact the customer services team on 01202 986805 or visit www. adeptrenewables.com to find out the best solution for you, and to get a free quote.

Huge Organic Range

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Almond and Co is a plastic-free, zero-waste shop with one of the biggest organic and natural range of products you have seen in one place locally.

The shop is at the forefront of the change in consumerism to a more conscious one, with increasing demand for fresh, healthy food that truly nurtures the body, and a growing awareness of the health implications and environmental impact of the plastics, chemicals and unnecessary packaging found in so many household products.

With a passion to bring about change, move away from pesticides and toxins, and to support the local community towards a healthier lifestyle – affordably – the stock includes organic foodstuffs, freshly baked bread from Bakehouse24, fruit and veg from Riverford, and non-toxic and natural cleaning products and beauty products.

The concept is simple; bring/buy a container, fill it up, and bring it to the till. If you don’t remember a container, no problem. Grab a paper bag and scoop away. You can even order online if you’re in a rush so you can get plastic-free deliveries or jars refilled for you. Pop by and say hello.

Almond and Co can be found at 75 Poole Road, Westbourne, and is open Monday to Saturday, 9.30am to 5.30pm.

Sustainable energy solutions

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With a foundation established in 2020, Thomas P&H Ltd (TPH) has swiftly become a trusted name in the renewable energy sector, renowned for its commitment to excellence. Its team of 12 skilled professionals, led by an industryexperienced director, ensures superior workmanship, driving unmatched customer satisfaction and solidifying its standing through glowing referrals.

At TPH, the primary aim is to provide sustainable solutions that alleviate the financial strain of rising energy costs for both households and businesses. While the company primarily operates in the south of the UK, its reach extends far beyond, demonstrated by numerous successful residential projects.

As more than just a company, TPH takes pride in being a renewable engineering partner to its clients, offering energy consultancy and diverse product installations tailored to the ever-changing needs of homeowners, ensuring they can embrace a greener future while enjoying cost savings.

Businesses/commercial properties

TPH provides a bespoke service and a truly tailored experience for businesses. Whether you’re embarking on a largescale project or you run a local familyowned shop, TPH has you covered. Their expertise is at your disposal, ensuring that you receive the precise solutions you need to achieve your business goals. With a commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction, they stand ready to assist you in powering your commercial ventures towards success.

Let TPH be your trusted partner on this journey, providing a bespoke service that matches your unique requirements and ambitions.

Sustainability award for Eco hub

BCP Council made good use of some old wooden seaside defences to create an eco hub, which has gone on to win the Sustainability prize at the 2023 Constructing Excellence South West (CESW) awards.

The two-storey building, which is on the beachside at Durley Chine, features an educational amenity and meeting space, welfare facilities for seafront waste collection staff, a beachside kiosk and toilets on the ground floor.

Over 45 tonnes of reclaimed timber, collected from old groynes removed from the seafront as part of the 17-year Poole Bay Beach Management scheme, were used in the creation and decking of the main building.

One side of the hub’s roof has been planted with species of vegetation matching those growing on the cliffs behind, while the low-lighting design accommodates bats.

Photovoltaic solar panels overlay the rest of the building, drawing solar power from the sun which helps to create a zerocarbon environment. Any excess energy can be fed back into the main grid.

The kiosk has been formed using low-carbon concrete and recycled glass, and drinks and snacks are available while avoiding any singleuse plastics. Visitors are encouraged to use the free water refill station, situated by the main entrance.