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"In South Africa consumers are still very much sheltered from the idea of eco-living, creating spaces that are optimised for an eco-conscious lifestyle and, as a result, it is important that they are educated around smart home renovations - no matter what the scale," said Michelle Potgieter, head of corporate marketing and communications of Samsung South Africa. "Do you remember the days that your grandparents' house was surrounded by a patio with a protruding roof that covered it, solid wooden floors and sunlight that beamed in through the north-facing side of the house? The reality is that older generations had it quite right - a mix of materials and the correct positioning of the home is the start to a greener lifestyle."
Today, Samsung is encouraging consumers to go back to these age-old principles of design and construction in making their homes a greener space. Samsung has demonstrated its commitment to eco-friendly practices by signing the 49M pledge, which aligns the brand to a government-endorsed initiative that aims to encourage a national culture of energy saving for a sustainable future.
There are a number of factors that can contribute to a greener home. When remodelling or making additions to your home's structure, it is important to consider alternative building materials that are less invasive on the environment as well as to consider proper insulation and positioning of the building. However, the interior of your house also plays a crucial role in greening your home. One of the most important features of an eco-friendly home is, in fact, the design and, as such, it is critical that consumers use high-efficiency appliances, which are geared towards energy and water conservation. Great advances have been made in lighting, heating and cooling technologies, which can also reduce electricity consumption dramatically - these should be investigated extensively when renovating to ensure that every option is explored to live a more sustainable lifestyle.
"For example, by using eco-friendly products that save energy, such as LED lighting, consumers can optimise their homes by reducing energy consumption by up to 80% while using only one-tenth of the energy of an incandescent bulb and lasting for up to 10 years or more," continued Potgieter. "Furthermore, it is important to consider appliances that do the same. Samsung's Deep Foam washing machine is a great example of this as through its 15-minute cycle and eco bubble technology saves you not only time but up to 70% energy as well as the use of less water."
To this end, Samsung encourage consumers to research their options when considering home improvements for a greener lifestyle. Keep a journal of those items that inspire you or cause frustration, so that you remember what it is you want to change and look for the most eco-friendly way of doing so.
"In order to obtain more tips on how to green your home, consumers should tune into EkoStyl on KykNet, DSTV Channel 144, and every Tuesday until 18 June at 5.30pm. The programme focuses on expert advice and offer great tips on greening the home - right from building, to design as well as energy optimisation," concluded Potgieter.
*Source: [[www.forbes.com/sites/houzz/2013/04/10/home-improvement-projects-are-on-the-rise Home improvement projects are on the rise
