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Built environment
Retrofitting refers to the process of improving the environmental performance of an existing building.
Typical techniques include improving insulation; adding solar panels; introducing passive solar features such as wind breaks; and improving the heating system.
This subject area focuses on the particular challenges of retrofitting these techniques, while a broader description of the techniques themselves can be found in the Energy Technologies subject area.
You can increase the amount of space you have available at your current property, instead of relocating.
The house is an important energy system and permaculture addresses ways in which the home can utilise the sun and other renewable energy.
Insulation is a key component to harnessing the potential of your home.
A building's location and surroundings play a key role in regulating it's illumination, for example; designing northern hemisphere buildings with south facing windows increases the amount of sun (and heat energy) entering the building.
Micro-generation refers to the small scale generation of low carbon heat and/or electricity power by individuals, small scale businesses and communities.
Water is a precious resource and water conservation encompasses strategies and activities to manage freshwater as a sustainable resource.