As much as 25 per cent of the UK's carbon dioxide emissions are as a direct result of the energy we use to heat and light our homes. By being more energy efficient, we can help the environment, reduce emissions and save money! Of the total amount of energy used in a typical house:

Loft insulation alone can reduce fuel bills by about 20%. 

There are many places around Swansea that are helping us to understand how we can make a difference, showing practical solutions, giving advice and grants too.

On the Trail...

St John's Church, Hafod has been developed as mixed-use and provides 12 flats for the elderly, a small church and a church hall for community use. The scheme received the Lord Mayor of Swansea's Award for most sustainable project in the City during the year. 'Warmcell' recycled cellulose material has been used to insulate as part of a breathing wall construction method. North facing roof lights optimise use of natural light. Low energy lighting is used throughout. New double-glazed windows were inserted behind the existing leaded-light windows to give a triple glazed window, which reduces heat-loss but retains the building's original character. Recycled Welsh slates were used on the roof thereby avoiding extra energy required to quarry new tiles. These features in combination with use of renewable energy features and careful design mean that energy costs are kept very low. Total energy costs for a two- bedroom flat is in the region of £4.71 per week.  This includes heating, domestic hot water, cooking and all electricity.
For details of the renewable energy systems on this project see the Renewable Energy Section.
Group visits can be arranged with plenty of notice.

Swansea Community Farm has incorporated several energy efficiency features into their new offices, animal barn and workshop. Flax and Hemp insulation have been used in the ceilings, walls and floors to reduce heat loss. The insulation is 100% natural, easy to install and economically and environmentally sustainable. Sun pipes allow natural light into the buildings without windows, which means less lighting is needed. Wood-framed double-glazing has been used for all windows to reduce heat loss. The wood has come from sustainably managed forests. The floors have been constructed using Margam slag (an industrial by-product). It is locally produced thus reducing energy in transporting it and avoids need for newly quarried stone which would take more energy.
See also the Sections on Renewable Energy Section, Food and Diet, and Shopping and Materials.

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