| Climate is starkly different in the tropics than | | | | |
| other areas of Australia. Your eco friendly home | | | | Waste water management: Use water efficient |
| should reflect the unique elements of this wet and | | | | toilet and taps to minimise waste water, which |
| humid environment where average humidity can | | | | can be potentially harmful to the delicate flora and |
| climb up to 62 per cent and average rainfall is | | | | fauna in the area. |
| around 1922 mm. | | | | Working with the landscape: Place responsive |
| In Tropical Queensland, the wet season takes | | | | design that takes into account the beautiful |
| place between November and May where rainfall | | | | tropical surrounds will not only minimise the |
| can be around 400 mm in February and | | | | environmental impact, it will maximise the |
| temperatures rise to well over 30 degrees. But | | | | enjoyment of your home. |
| with a carefully considered eco conscious design, | | | | Consider your materials: The presence of cyclonic |
| even the wet tropics can be comfortable all year | | | | winds means you may be limited in what you can |
| round with minimal environmental impact. | | | | use in your materials but certainly sustainably |
| Tropical dwellings emphasise passive cooling and | | | | sourced timbers can be used for elements of the |
| waste water management. Here are some | | | | building. |
| elements to consider: | | | | Wildlife: Being a part of such a natural landscape, |
| Passive cooling: Maximise the use of shading and | | | | there's little doubt that native critters will find their |
| ventilation in your design. Make the most of | | | | way into your tropical home. Screens will help and, |
| natural breezes and unlike other green building | | | | fortunately, mosquitoes become less of an issue if |
| designs - don't use thermal mass! | | | | dwellings are constructed at higher elevations. |
| | | | Most importantly, enjoy the natural experience. |
| Humidity: Ceiling fans and cross ventilation | | | | For more tips on how to conceive your tropical |
| principles will help circulate the air and reduce the | | | | dwelling or other ideas on sustainable living and |
| discomfort. Active ventilation of the roof space | | | | eco friendly homes visit your leading sustainability |
| also helps to maintain the internal moisture levels | | | | directory and resource for ideas for the eco |
| of the house. | | | | home. |