Repsol YPF

Some properties are built using environmentally-friendly materials, but their design does not include criteria such as the orientation and lay-out of the different rooms in order to make the most of the  warmth and light of the sun and the cool nights, thereby achieving efficient energy use. Meanwhile, others have considered these aspects but this concern has not extended to the use of sustainable materials. It is essential that both bioconstruction and bioclimatic aspects are considered in parallel in order to be able to talk about ecological dwellings. A sustainable house is designed by taking into account both factors. To start with, the climate in the area where the property is to be built is evaluated and then the different rooms will be assigned, placing kitchens and bathrooms in the coolest area and bedrooms and lounges facing south. Eaves and awnings are often incorporated in order to reduce the impact of the sun beams and the house being heated up as a result. The intensity of solar radiation is carefully studied in order to rationalise the heat received during the hottest times of day, such that the effect is retained during the cooler periods. An ecological home usually incorporates renewable energy systems (solar panels and wind generators), depending on the weather conditions in the area where the house is built.  

The second category is bioconstruction (buildings that use ecological elements and production systems).Building materials with low radioactive emissions should be used, a parameter which is particularly important when looking at elements which are in direct contact with living creatures and food. Experts advise against reinforced concrete structures, or at least urge that they only be used where strictly necessary. Where the building enclosure materials are concerned, these should be very natural; produced locally and simply; with minimal levels of radioactive, gas and toxic particle emissions; waterproof and permeable to steam; and easily reusable and recoverable at the end of their useful life. 

All sustainable building projects which have been completed or are in progress are currently 30% more expensive than traditional constructions, but water, gas and electricity bills are over 70% lower. With time, as this type of property ceases to be the exception, costs will be lower, according to all of the agents involved. 

Through the door

Inside, ecological properties also contemplate a series of measures which help to reinforce the concept for which they have been created. Low-energy light bulbs, “green” domestic appliances, environmentally-friendly decorative materials, devices to control the use of water (regulators, dispensers and rainwater collection containers)… are items which feature in sustainable dwellings. However, there is no point living in the perfect house if the inhabitants are not environmentally aware. Residents’ habits are fundamental in this respect. Separating rubbish and waste in order to place it in the appropriate containers; efficient use of water and light; refusing to engage in wasteful consumption, are just as important as looking for an ecological home. There are still attitudes which have not caught on amongst Spaniards according to certain surveys on energy efficiency in the home carried out by different companies and consultancies, which show minimal savings in Spaniards’ consumption. Turning off all electrical appliances and not leaving them on standby, unplugging the mobile telephone charger when it is not in use, using containers and saucepans which consume little energy when cooking food, not wasting water when washing, only putting the washing machine and dishwasher on when they are full, are actions which we can all perform without much effort or complicated protocols. We just need to change our mentality and apply ourselves to this task. 

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