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Tseko Shibambu Marketing Manager

Building and Living Green

(November 2007)

By Tseko Shibambu, Marketing Manager

We as individuals are contributing towards the destruction of the earth, while generally unaware.  The greenhouse gases that we emit, mostly Carbon Dioxide (CO₂) envelop the earth and thus lock in the heat from the sun.  This effect causes what is now commonly known as global warming.  The effects of global warming can be severe, for example, the heat waves experienced throughout the world lately are attributable to this phenomenon.  Also, amongst a host of other consequences, the shortage of rain in some parts of the world and the increase in the number of tsunamis and hurricanes could also be attributed to this phenomenon.

Then, why do we need to build and live green?

Our buildings are also responsible for the damage caused to the earth.  The following are just a few examples of how we make a difference: 

• Solar power.  If you can afford it, installing solar power could be very beneficial to you as well as the environment.  Having solar power means that you can generate your own electricity without damaging the environment.  Also, you will avoid the occasional power cuts as has been experienced in the past few years.
  Here is how it works:  the solar panels attract light from the sun and convert it into electricity.  This process ensures that there is no emission of gases, hence the conservation of the environment.  Some places have wind-powered generators.  Even though this type of electricity may be more expensive to buy in South Africa, it’s benefits far outweigh the costs.
• Positioning.  The way your house is placed on the land is important to consider.  Ensuring that your house benefits from natural light and wind conditions could assist in saving you money.  For example, if your bedrooms are not facing east during winter, chances are high that you will use more electricity than if they were.  Also, a house that is built to face constant winds would need to have its doors and windows closed at most times, resulting in more electricity usage in terms of fans and air conditioners.
• Rainwater tanks.  Install your own rainwater tank if you can.  The usage of this system assures the reduction of pollution, sedimentation and erosion.  Since our storm water systems seem to be under a lot of strain, rainwater tanks could lessen these tensions on them.
• Recycled building materials.  Using recycled waste material in building could also assist in the cause.
• Shower versus bath.  Taking a shower instead of a bath will save you not only money, but also time and effort.  We use more water when taking a bath than when we shower.  This means our geysers need to make use of more electricity and water for the next handling.
• Own-produced fertiliser.  For gardening enthusiasts:  creating and using your own fertiliser is simple; all you need to do is dig a hole in your garden and then throw in all the old grass, leaves, etc.  The decomposition process will convert all these into fertiliser.
• Planting trees.  Trees play a very ecological function.  Not only do they protect us against adverse weather conditions such as wind, storms, etc, they also provide us with fruits and nuts – the natural necessities.

Protecting the environment is everyone’s responsibility and the little we do today will ensure that we leave our children with a sustainable planet.

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