Homes adopt green technology
Sustainability is no longer just a buzz word. Many homeowners are applying the concept. With assistance from experts, everyone can implement carbon-saving practices.
There are basics such as recycling rubbish made of plastic, cardboard and aluminium. Others take things more seriously and can create versatile installations including solar panels and piping, absorption chillers, rainwater collection systems and glazed structures.
'I think that the sustainable living concept in homes nowadays is more popular than before owing to increasing awareness and concern by property owners,' says MCL Environmental Technology director Mai Kwok-wah.
Established last year by a team of environmental and engineering professionals, MCL Environmental Technology specialises in energy efficiency, environmental and energy management, and emission reduction for residential, commercial and industrial buildings.
The firm provides professional services to help achieve reduction in carbon emissions and more energy-efficient and greener operations for sustainable development. It also provides environmental education and training programmes to educate young people.
'The investment for green technology in the home seems to be costly. However, one needs to look at the payback period for green technology and not just the cost of investment,' Mai says. 'For example, some LED spot lights, ceiling lights and LED tubes used for long hours provide a payback period of two to three years compared with more conventional light fittings. Solar photovoltaic systems may have more than 15 years of payback period. It certainly requires a more long-term investment concept.'
Energy saving is not just about investing in new-fangled appliances. Education is the key and homeowners should aim towards using light fixtures with energy labels. Green practices at home should be implemented, such as setting air conditioners at 25.5C and switching off electrical appliances, computers and televisions that are not in use or in sleep mode.
'We can help residential block owners and even venture into single-block properties that have no owners' association,' Mai says.
'We have worked with Tai Po Environmental Association to deliver workshops for them to help spread the ideas. Lighting is the major source of consumption and the most direct way to save is to change to other lighting. Air conditioning is ranked second. The government has promoted the energy-saving label concept. Another measure we are implementing is a frequency control drive that helps conserve an elevator's motor.'
Other measures include the use of high-efficiency lighting for indoors and outdoors, air conditioners with heat recovery to heat water, solar water heaters, solar plus wind power, solar lamps for outdoors, green roofs, green walls, planting of trees, use of daylight, water reduction by collection of rain and condensation from air conditioners, ceramic tiles, eco-bricks, water sinks, water closets made with recycled materials, and even automatic taps.
The list continues, but every little thing counts as each individual is accountable for their own carbon footprint.
