One of the less well-publicised features of park living is that the park lifestyle naturally lends itself to a reduced carbon footprint, lower energy bills and a more environmentally friendly way of life.
That’s a great combination and a “win-win” for both our planet and anyone taking advantage of the significant financial benefits of moving into a park home. We discuss some small lifestyle changes that when added together can save money and help the environment.
A planet in need of rescue!
It can be a great feeling to know that you are doing your bit for the environment. As global warming, overuse of plastics and carbon emissions are clearly affecting our vulnerable ecosystem and wreaking havoc with our weather, we can all play our part to help. Who can deny the flash floods, fierce thunderstorms and unseasonably tropical days are the results of a planet in need of rescue!
Congratulations, you have made a great start already!
The combination of cutting-edge design and quality materials add up to park homes which are both energy efficient and low maintenance.
As Omar Homes state on their web site “With energy prices at a high, we all want to try to get our bills down as much as possible, something which is especially important in retirement. Modern park homes, built to BS 3632:2015, are built with energy savings in mind.
The new British Standard brings with it improved insulation, heat retention, higher maintainable room temperatures and low energy lighting, these are just a few of the features that help save money on energy bills. Modern park homes are therefore generally economical to run and low maintenance, and if household bills, in general, are a concern, then in nearly all cases, council tax will be band A.”
That’s a great way to begin your journey to a lower-carbon lifestyle.
Energy-saving initiatives and modern designs
Stunning modern kitchens are one of the attractions that buyers find irresistible when choosing a home. Invariably they are equipped with stylish integral appliances, benefiting from the lowest energy ratings and energy-saving cycles.
Designs featuring floor-to-ceiling doors and windows mean that even in the depths of winter, residents are guaranteed natural daylight streaming in, helping to minimise the need for artificial lighting and keeping rooms warm. Park homes are not only energy-efficient but are designed to be cosy, all year round – without huge bills.
Beach clean-ups
Barton’s parks in Somerset and Devon are close to the sea (Seascapes overlooks the Bristol Channel!) Coastal parks are always popular locations, but marine life is at severe risk from the overuse of plastics. Why not give up some time to help to keep UK coasts clean and tidy, by taking part in a beach clean. These are an excellent way to protect wildlife and preserve the UK’s beautiful beaches. Visit the National Trust website to find out about beach cleans happening near you.
Keep up the good work
In addition to the lower demands that your park home makes on the planet’s resources, here are our suggestions for other lifestyle choices you can make today, for a better tomorrow!
Downsizing – why not pass it on?
It’s easy to give in to the temptation to keep unwanted items in the back of the wardrobe, rather than to part company with something that you’ve had around for years. But de-cluttering as part of a downsizing decision is the perfect opportunity to dispose of those boxes that have remained unopened since your last move.
Rather than go to the tip, pass these items on or donate them to charity!
Unwanted items, clothes, knick-knacks or toys can receive an extended life when passed on, either by resale or donation. Non-profit organizations or charities will distribute your items to those in need.
Ditch the driving
Most residential parks, including Barton Group’s parks, based in Devon and Somerset are situated in carefully chosen locations, close to amenities and places of interest, so you won’t have far to travel for a fun day out. Many parks have excellent public transport options so it’s easy to get where you need to be, without costing the planet!
Leaving the car behind is much more achievable when time pressures of a busy working life are lifted, and every journey saved helps reduce emissions and the pressure on scarce resources.
Use more reusables
Avoid using disposables and single-use items such as spring water bottles razors, coffee cups, supermarket bags and food storage containers. Develop the habit of multiple-use water bottles and flasks, topped up from the tap. Remember to choose loose fruit and vegetables, in place of pre-packed foods. It will actually save you money in the long run!
Grow your own
There’s nothing more rewarding or satisfying than tucking into your own homegrown produce! Reduce the fossil fuels used to transport products up and down the country in delivery to supermarkets by growing food yourself. You don’t need acres and acres to grow your own crop of herbs, fruits and vegetables, try a window box or a raised bed made from sleepers.
Drink from the tap
The dependence on bottled water has led to more than a million tons of plastic being wasted each year. Buy refillable water bottles instead, to use at home, on your travels and when you’re out and about as well.
Good luck with trying something new
That’s our collection of simple ideas for living the low carbon footprint lifestyle. Good luck with trying something new, reducing your carbon footprint, lowering your energy bills and living a more environmentally friendly way of life – after all buying a park home is a great start!