As our planet faces increasing environmental challenges, it has become more important than ever to prioritise sustainable practices in every aspect of our lives, including property development and interior design.

When we develop and design homes with sustainability in mind, it can offer a wide range of benefits, both for the environment, our wallets, and for the well-being of occupants.

The most important reason to become more sustainability conscious though is to reduce our impact on the environment by minimising waste, conserving natural resources, and promoting the use of renewable energy sources. This, in turn, helps to offset the negative effects of climate change, such as rising temperatures, sea levels, and extreme weather events.

And if saving our planet wasn't reason enough, designing sustainably can also lead to significant cost-savings in the long run. By incorporating energy-efficient technologies and sustainable building materials, for example, property developers can reduce energy consumption, lower maintenance costs, and increase a property values.

Did you also know that sustainable interiors and spaces have been shown to provide a healthier living environment for tenants and occupants? Promoting improved air quality, natural lighting, and access to outdoor spaces.

With all of these benefits in mind, it goes without saying that the importance of sustainability cannot be overstated.

As Property Developers, we have a unique opportunity (and responsibility) to create spaces that not only look great but are also environmentally-friendly and socially responsible. And as frequent consumers of furniture, materials, and decor pieces, we should all work to become more conscious of the impact of our purchasing decisions on the environment.

Here are some recommendations on how property developer's could be more sustainable in their projects:

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Use sustainable materials

One of the easiest ways to make a property more sustainable is by using more eco-friendly materials during the construction and design stages.

As property developers, we can make conscious decisions to use materials that are made from renewable resources (such as bamboo or cork), as well as using recycled materials (such as reclaimed wood or recycled plastic) to reduce waste and conserve natural resources.

Here's some more examples of renewable materials that have a lower environmental impact than more traditional materials, like hardwood:

• Bamboo – a fast-growing plant that can be harvested and regrown quickly
• Cork – the bark of cork oak trees can be harvested without harming the tree, and it regrows over time. Check out Recork's products.
• Hemp – a fast-growing plant that can be used to make a variety of products, including textiles, paper, and building materials
• Recycled plastic – whilst plastic is a material that has a high environmental impact, recycled plastic can be used to make new products, reducing the need for new plastic production. Check out Smile Plastics products.
• Reclaimed wood – wood that has been salvaged from old buildings or structures and repurposed for new use
• Natural stone – such as granite or marble, is durable and long-lasting, and can be used for a variety of applications
• Wool – can be used for textiles and insulation, and is biodegradable

Keen to see what these materials look like in a finished property? Take a look at our Pinterest board for inspiration and examples.
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Choose energy-efficient appliances and lighting

Energy-efficient appliances and lighting are essential in any sustainable property.

Property developers in particular should choose appliances and lighting fixtures that have high energy efficiency ratings, in order to cut their properties' energy bills and carbon dioxide emissions.

If you replace all the bulbs in your home with LED lights, you could reduce your carbon dioxide emissions by up to 40kg (50kg in NI) a year. This is equivalent to the carbon dioxide emitted by driving your car around 145 miles.

Lighting makes up 11% of the average UK household electricity consumption, so making the switch could help you save money too – Energy Saving Trust

In terms of lighting your property, LED lighting is a popular option because it uses less energy than traditional lighting and has a longer lifespan. But if you're looking for more information and recommendations on which options to use in your properties, you can read the full Energy Saving Trust's guide here.

With regards to sourcing energy-efficient appliances for your rental properties, here are a few handy tips to keep in mind:

• Look for the EU energy label – the label has a rating scale from A to G, with A being the most energy-efficient and G being the least. Look for appliances with an A+++ or A++ rating for the best energy efficiency
• Check the energy consumption – in addition to the EU Energy Label, you can also check the energy consumption in kilowatt-hours (kWh) per year. The lower the energy consumption, the more energy-efficient the appliance.
• Consider the size and features of the appliance – choose the appropriate size for your needs, and look for features like automatic shut-off and temperature controls to help you save energy
• Look for appliances with energy-saving modes – look for appliances with features such as "eco mode" or "energy saver mode" to help save energy
• Compare energy usage and costs – energy-efficient appliances may cost more upfront, but they can save you money in the long run by reducing your energy bills
  
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Conduct an energy audit

An energy audit can help to identify the areas where energy might be being wasted in a property. This will help you prioritise any improvements that might need to be made, to move you towards a more sustainable and energy-efficient home.

Here are some specific things an energy audit can tell you about your property:

• Energy usage – The audit will identify how much energy your property is using overall and which areas are using the most energy
• Efficiency – The audit will identify areas where your property is using energy inefficiently, such as drafts, air leaks, or outdated equipment
• Heating and cooling – The audit will identify how efficient your heating and cooling systems are and recommend upgrades or improvements
• Lighting – The audit will identify ways to reduce energy usage through lighting upgrades or changes in behavior
• Water usage – The audit may also look at your property's water usage and identify ways to reduce usage and save on water bills

Incorporate green spaces

Incorporating green spaces into a property's design is an excellent way to promote sustainability.

Although not achievable in all rental properties and SA's, where possible, property developers should look to create outdoor spaces complete with gardens and plants that provide shade and improve air quality. In larger and more unique projects, there is also the potential to incorporate green roofs, which are roofs covered in vegetation, to reduce the property's carbon footprint and improve insulation.

Got the available space, and want to put your budget to environmentally-friendly use? Why not build a community planting/vegetable garden where tenants can grow and harvest their own fruit and vegetables – a win-win for the planet, their pockets, and their health!
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Improve insulation

A properly insulated property can help keep heat inside during the winter and keep it outside during the summer, reducing the need for expensive and wasteful heating and cooling system consumption – and significantly reducing your carbon footprint in the process.

Property developers can improve the insulation in their property in a few ways:

• Adding insulation to the attic
• Sealing air leaks around doors, windows, and other areas with weatherstripping and caulking
• Replacing single-pane windows with double-glazed windows
• Adding insulation to walls by injecting insulation material into the walls, or by adding insulation to the exterior or interior of the walls
• Insulating hot water pipes with foam insulation sleeves or wraps
• Insulating the floor by adding insulation to the crawl space or basement underneath the floor, or by installing a layer of insulation on top of the existing flooring
  
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Install water-saving fixtures

Water is a precious resource, and it's important to conserve it whenever possible. Property developers can install water-saving fixtures such as low-flow toilets, shower-heads, and faucets. These fixtures use less water without sacrificing performance, which helps reduce the property's water consumption.

94% of people underestimate the amount of water they use. In reality each person in the UK uses 152 litres every single day, on average – Water's Worth Saving Org.

As well as making these smart purchase choices, it's also a good idea for landlords and their tenants to get clued-up on the other ways to save on general water usage too. There are some great bits of advice here.
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Use natural lighting and ventilation

Leveraging natural lighting and ventilation is essential in any sustainable property, and as property developers, we should always strive to design spaces in a way that takes advantage of these things whenever possible.

This can be achieved by incorporating large windows and orientating them strategically, installing skylights or light tubes, using light-coloured walls and materials that regulate temperature and humidity levels, and designing open floor-plans that allow for natural airflow.
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Choose furniture wisely

As well as sustainable building materials, the furniture and decoration pieces you select for your property can also have a significant impact on your sustainability factor.

Property developers should try and choose furniture made from sustainable materials such as FSC-certified wood or bamboo. They should also avoid furniture made from materials that are harmful to the environment, such as leather or synthetic materials.

When shopping for furniture, here are some tips on how to determine if a piece of furniture is sustainable or not:

• Look for certifications – check if the furniture has been certified by a third-party organisation that verifies sustainable practices, such as the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) or the Sustainable Furnishings Council (SFC).
• Check the materials – find out what materials the furniture is made of and research their sustainability. For example, wood from sustainably managed forests is a better option than wood from clear-cut forests.
• Consider the manufacturing process – look for furniture made using environmentally friendly processes, such as using renewable energy sources or minimising waste and emissions
• Check the durability
• Research the company – look into the company's sustainability practices and values. Check if they use sustainable materials, have environmentally friendly manufacturing processes, and have social responsibility policies in place
• Consider the transportation – look for furniture that is made locally or regionally to reduce the environmental impact of transportation

By taking these factors into consideration, you can make a more informed decision when purchasing furniture and choose pieces that are more sustainable.
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Use recycled or repurposed materials and furniture

Instead of buying new, why not consider using recycled or repurposed materials to design, stage, or build your property?

For example, you can use reclaimed wood for furniture or incorporate vintage or secondhand items into your designs, especially if you're purchasing items purely for a staging kit.

Do you remember how Hive member, Sophie Lane, repurposed a bulk load of unwanted Starbucks tiles to decorate the bedroom AND kitchen in her latest buy-to-let? It cost her nothing to do, it meant that great-quality tiles didn't go to waste in a land-fill site, and it looks absolutely amazing!
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Consider the lifespan of products

If you are going to buy new furniture and decor pieces for your staging kits, then be prepared to choose products wisely.

Try and pick products that are built to last and are made with durable materials – this will reduce the need for replacement and minimise waste.

Here are some tips on picking the right products to promote sustainability:

• Choose furniture made of durable materials like solid wood, metal, or natural fibres like linen
• Look for products that are built to last with sturdy construction and quality craftsmanship
• Construction materials like stone, concrete, and natural wood are known for their durability and longevity, and often have a timeless aesthetic
• If you have permanent textiles in a property (like a serviced accommodation) consider choosing dark or patterned fabrics that can hide stains and wear and tear
• Choosing more timeless designs over trendy pieces can help you avoid having to replace your furniture and decor every few years
• Look for products that come with a warranty or guarantee to ensure that you can get a replacement or repair if something goes wrong
• Investing in products such as washable rugs, although costly initially, will pay off in the long-run – especially in an SA property with heavy foot-traffic and children/pet guests!
• Look for furniture with high-density foam cushions, as they will retain their shape and support for longer
  
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Support local businesses

Supporting local businesses is an important consideration when thinking about how to design sustainable. If possible, property developers should research local suppliers and contractors to work with on their builds or development projects. This reduces the property's carbon footprint and supports the local economy.
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Use renewable energy sources

It might not be an option for every property project, but if you can, consider installing solar panels, or geothermal systems to generate electricity or heat for the property. This can reduce the property's reliance on non-renewable energy sources.

There are several factors to consider when determining if solar panels and other renewable energy options are a good fit for your property. Here are some things to consider:

• Location – The amount of sunlight available in your area is an important factor to consider when determining the feasibility of renewable energy options. Areas with high levels of sunlight are more likely to be good candidates for solar panels.
• Energy Needs – Assess your energy consumption and determine if the energy produced by the renewable energy system can meet your energy needs. You can consult an energy specialist or an energy audit to know your energy consumption.
• Cost – Evaluate the costs of installing a renewable energy system versus the savings you'll see on your energy bills. Take into account the cost of equipment, installation, and maintenance. The cost of renewable energy systems have reduced in recent years and in some places, government incentives are available to reduce the upfront costs.
• Government regulations – Check the regulations and laws in your area to determine if renewable energy systems are allowed, and if there are any restrictions or requirements to consider.
• Future plans – Consider your long-term plans for the property. If you plan to sell the property or keep it as a rental, a renewable energy system can add value and appeal to potential buyers or tenants.

Overall, renewable energy systems can be a good fit for many property development projects, but it's important to evaluate your specific circumstances and consult with experts to determine if it's a viable option for you.

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Use low VOC paints

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are harmful chemicals found in some paints that can negatively impact indoor air quality. If you can, try and opt for paints that are low-VOC or VOC-free.

You don't have to look very far to find low VOC paints too – COAT paints have an extensive range of lovely colours, all more sustainable than their cheaper alternatives.
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Implement energy-saving habits

Encourage tenants or occupants of the property to adopt energy-saving habits, such as turning off lights when not in use, unplugging appliances when not in use, and using natural light instead of artificial light. And make sure you are in control of things like heating systems, to keep consumption at a reasonable level.

In HMO's for example, consider offering tenants handy guides or posters that detail how they can be more aware of their energy and water consumption.
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Say 'yes' to indoor plants

You might not want to purchase indoor plants for a rental property yourself, but encouraging your tenants to keep care of their own might be a good idea. Plants can help improve indoor air quality by filtering out pollutants.

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Luckily for us, due to the influx in interest, sustainability is becoming more mainstream as designers and manufacturers embrace eco-friendly practices and materials. This has led to a wider range of sustainable products and materials becoming available, making it easier for us to incorporate sustainability into our homes.

Remember, making sustainable choices in your property development is all about prioritising quality over quantity though.

Invest in the products and materials that are built to last, and you'll save money and reduce your impact on the environment in the long run. With smart choices at every stage of the development phase, we can create properties that are both environmentally friendly and socially responsible.

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