The UK is ranked 23 out of 28 European nations for “national environmentally conscious housing practices”, according to the landmark Green Living Index report.
The report looks at energy and recycling as well as sustainability and engagement, with Portugal, Sweden and Germany scoring well. Portugal places at the top of the Green Living Index, which is in part due to the low levels of private energy consumption, and Germany, in third, is a pioneer in solar energy.
Austria, Denmark, Spain, Latvia, Greece, Slovakia and Finland all rank in the top ten.
Why is UK so low on the list?
More of our homes are cold, old and leaky than not. Just 12% of the UK’s household energy comes from renewable sources, and a mere 8% of energy used for UK domestic heating and cooling is fuelled by renewables.
Smaller household sizes also contributes to a higher per capita consumption, with fewer extended families, more household split-ups and an ageing population, meaning that the average British household is made up of just two people. Not only that but only 15% of us live in flats, which are easier to heat than houses.
The UK did, however, score well for recycling, with 44% of household waste being reused. And we are committed to sustainable living (even if our homes aren’t well-insulated) according to the report.
What does any of this mean and why should we pay attention? Well, perhaps we have to try a little harder. Some of this is down to policy makers and money spenders; making smart decisions that enable us to upgrade our homes to more energy efficient models. Some of it is down to homeowners; to invest now for long term gain.
If you’re thinking about home improvements (plumbing, energy or installations), feel free to contact the team on 01689 485007 or info@aacooper.co.uk – we’re happy to help.