Evening Telegraph (First Edition)
Lessons to learn from earth homes
The way we interact with our environment is changing and finding sustainable solutions is more important than ever
Could earth homes inspire us to reduce our carbon footprint and protect our ecosystem when we start our home project?
These dwellings, crafted predominantly from natural materials like earth, straw and wood, are not just architectural marvels but also offer valuable lessons for us all. Also known as an earth shelter, an earth home is a structure (usually a house) with earth (soil) against the walls, on the roof or that is entirely buried underground.
While building an earth home may not be achievable for everyone, what lessons can we learn from them when we work on our homes in Scotland?
Earth homes embrace using natural resources. One of the environmental benefits of an earth home is that its construction is based on using locally sourced renewable materials.
Following suit, we may significantly reduce the environmental footprint of our construction projects by using locally sourced materials rather than importing materials from abroad.
Aim to use reclaimed materials, like bricks, slate and timber. Not only will you help the environment, but you could save a pound or two compared to buying in brand new materials, particularly if those materials will be imported from elsewhere.
Another lesson to learn is how earth homes increase energy efficiency and can even potentially lower bills. Due to their unique construction, this type of home offers unparalleled thermal comfort throughout the year.
While we are already well aware of the importance of insulation in homes in Scotland, it’s a great reminder that thermal comfort should be a priority in what is sometimes harsh and unpredictable weather. That’s why it’s vital to always check your boiler and keep up to date with servicing. It is recommended that you should service your boiler at least once a year to ensure it functions correctly.
Alternatively, you can consider a newer or different heating method like a biomass heating system or heat pumps which use environmentally friendly, money-saving energy sources rather than finite fossil fuels like gas and coal. Also, don’t forget to be sure your doors and windows are airtight, as these can cause irritating drafts and costly heating bills. When improving our homes another lesson we can learn from is the sturdy construction and strong constitution of earth walls. These provide protection against extreme weather.
Whether it’s redoing
your landscaping to prevent flooding, fitting new windows, or replacing your leaky roof, try to find the right balance between quality and budget for every home project.
The sturdiness and longevity of earth homes reminds us of the importance of building things to last – that’s why it’s important to get extra help from tradespeople to make sure our homes are fit for purpose.
If you’re still looking for ways to make improvements in your home, visit energysavingtrust.org. uk. The experts offer free and impartial advice for everyone living in Scotland, from tips on how to create a warmer and more energyefficient home, reducing energy bills, exploring greener energy options and financial support including grants and 0% loans.