GLOBAL Recycling Day on March 18 reminds us to choose eco-friendly products for our outdoor home renovations where possible.
Rod Schiefelbein of eco-decking brand, Trex Australia, says that with a few easy substitutions, your outdoor area can become better for the environment and your wallet in the long-term.
1. Swap imported plants for native ones
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READ NOWBe conscious of the plants, shrubs and trees surrounding your home. Choose plants that thrive in the local environment, which will cut down on the amount of water required to keep them healthy.
2. Swap running water for rainwater
Install a rainwater tank at home: you can buy tanks for small backyards from local distributors to help reuse the rainfall and help lower water bills.
3. Swap wooden decking for wood-composite
If you have a deck, or are looking to build one, consider wood-composite decking over traditional timber.
Long-wearing and easy to clean, it will also last longer than standard wooden decking.
4. Swap water-logged soil for run-off areas
Dig out run-off areas in your backyard so when we get heavy rain, water travels downhill or out of your backyard, saving plants.
Run-off areas serve the added benefit of eliminating mosquito-breeding water-logged soil areas in your garden, lessening the need for bug spray.
5. Swap summer entertaining for year-round garden use
The best way to be eco-friendly in the backyard is to use your area year-round for better cost-per-wear for your items.
Consider a fire pit, some linen-covered deckchairs and soy-based candles to add ambience to an evening. Keep the outdoor lights off.
For more information visit au.trex.com