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We are providing these images for use in publications to illustrate the principles and features of sustainable housing. Please observe the copyright requirements associated with these images:
Copyright ©, The Queensland Government supports and encourages the dissemination and exchange of information. However, copyright protects this material. The State of Queensland asserts the right to be recognised as author of this material and the right to have its material preserved and not altered. Use of material published by the Department of Housing should only be in accordance with the Copyright Act 1968 (Commonwealth).
A step-free entrance provides easy access into the home and reduced-slip floor surfaces help to prevent slips and falls. These features help to make the home socially sustainable.
A sustainable home has lever door handles that can be easily operated using one hand or and elbow.
A solar hot water system reduces greenhouse gas emissions thereby making the home more environmentally sustainable. By lowering water heating bills, it also means the home is more economically sustainable.
Plants that do not require a lot of water or maintenance contribute to environmental and economic sustainability because they conserve valuable resources and save home owners money.
Careful thought as to the fixtures and fittings used throughout the home, such as a water tank, heat pump and AAA or higher rated low-flow shower heads, can impact dramatically on energy and water use, which in turn, means financial savings for occupants. Such features increase environmental and economic sustainability.
Louvre windows and ceiling fans support air circulation throughout the home, which helps to reduce cooling costs. These are economically sustainable features because they save the occupants money.
Last updated August 2006
In a sustainable home, windows are positioned to allow occupants to view the garden and street, while maintaining privacy, thereby contributing to making the home socially sustainable.
Low water-volume lever taps can be easily handled and therefore can be used by people of all abilities, which means they are socially sustainable. They also reduce the amount of water used making them economically sustainable as well.
Large rocker-style switches are easy for people of all abilities to use. They make living in a home more comfortable which is one of the features of a socially sustainable home.
