“How can we improve the homes we live in?” formed the biggest question asked of Sustainable Homes Algarve on Monday at the Conrad Algarve.
The recently-established organisation aims to combat problems property owners experience in their homes, particularly over winter when cold and damp environments encourage mould growth and generate huge energy bills.
Founder member and chartered surveyor Ian Rostron said he was “well aware” of the poor condition of many homes in the region, where “possibly the most important first step might be to improve insulation of the building fabric”.
“We are a force for change,” said chairperson and architect Anabela Macieira, “a knowledge centre of buildings, interiors and landscapes.”
Anabela referred to Passivhaus, the energy efficiency standard developed in Germany in 1993 and today a universal standard throughout Europe with over 600,000 homes built using natural energy sources.
“Here in the Algarve we respect both the culture and the climate. Passivhaus is a tried-and-test standard held in high regard. There are, however, a number of well-established design and construction techniques our members have used with great success, so we do not limit our options.”
Property developer John Tranmer, the founder of the award-winning AlmaVerde Eco Village and Spa near Budens, has experience in building and maintaining low energy homes since he began his development in 1998.
John points to the simple ethics he has fostered over the years to build a sense of community, to encourage lifelong pursuit of wellbeing and to promote the sustainable and energy efficient use of local natural resources.
David Rowlands, vice chairman and lighting specialist, spoke of EU targets to build only near-zero energy homes by 2020.
David referred to the combination of legislation and best practice at every level in building materials, construction techniques and eco design.
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