Putting a waste management plan in place

“Construction waste is not something that’s first and foremost on people’s minds when they want to design and build their own home,” says Eugenie Stockmann, a sustainable developer and consultant. “We were probably a bit shocked when we saw the reality of what happens on a construction site.”

Driving change, at least overseas

In his latest update on the electric vehicle market, Bryce Gaton reports on how quickly things are changing overseas, while Australia still waits for its EV moment.f

Replacing your fossil miles

Our regular writer Bryce Gaton explains why he’s just bought his first-ever new car, a Hyundai Kona electric vehicle.

A tale of three winters

In a well-designed house, can you get by without heating? And how does far infrared heating compare to split systems, for efficiency and comfort? Jenny Edwards put her own home to the test.

Recycling solar

With the recent boom in solar PV installations and the increasing uptake of storage batteries, we take a look at what will happen to these products when they reach the end of their lives.

Solar system buyers guide 2020

Interview with a designer: cladding in the sub-tropics

Rain and heat mean different cladding and finishing choices in the sub-tropics, says Stephanie Skyring, an architect based in Brisbane. But a focus on sustainable materials is key, no matter the climate.

Sustainable salons

When our managing editor heard that her hair salon was joining a movement for greater sustainability, she was intrigued, and sent Kellie Flanagan to find out more.

Cladding case study: Charred for a long life

Quentin Irvine has been making and using charred timber cladding since 2015, both on his own house and for clients.

Cladding case study: Timber cottage with low-maintenance twist

This house in Willunga, SA, uses timber cladding for a cottage feel, but adds low-maintenance Colorbond and magnesium oxide board for the hard-to-reach areas.