Survey reveals homeowners in Scotland incline towards adopting eco-friendly residences

Green Home Festival Advocates for Sustainable Living in Edinburgh

The Green Home Festival, an event dedicated to building a more sustainable future, one home at a time, is set to take place in Edinburgh from August 14-18. The festival, which is affiliated with multiple local organizations committed to sustainability and community engagement, including Creative Scotland, Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce, Festivals Edinburgh, and Scottish Ballet, is organized by 28 trade associations, professional services bodies, and companies.

According to Fiona Hodgson, co-organiser of the Green Home Festival, there is a very real appetite for change among homeowners. In a recent survey conducted by the festival, 65% of respondents believe there should be new rules for better insulation in existing homes at vital moments, such as buying or selling a property. Moreover, two-thirds of those polled want better insulation rules enforced.

The survey also revealed that 71% of respondents are aware of the negative impact of oil and gas boilers on climate change. Fiona Hodgson stated, "Many people recognize the need to move away from fossil fuels and embrace cleaner energy sources." In line with this, 40% of survey participants said they would consider installing a heat pump as an alternative to a fossil fuel boiler within the next five years, and 57% would be willing to purchase a heat pump with some or no government support.

The Scottish government has also shown support for this shift towards cleaner energy. They have considered measures to limit the use of fossil fuel heating in existing homes, including promoting a net-zero pathway with defined timelines for reducing emissions from gas and electricity by 2030 and other related sectors by 2045. The government's focus is on actual emission reductions rather than offsetting, as part of a broader commitment to sustainability and tackling climate change.

The Green Home Festival will offer practical demonstrations on how to implement changes towards cleaner energy sources and better insulation. The festival has maintained a steady supply of information and practical advice to the sector, carrying out surveys, producing animations and posters, hosting webinars, and maintaining close dialogue with Scottish government ministers.

In addition, WWF Scotland has published a new poll stating that the majority of Scots support moves to phase out the use of fossil fuel burners in existing homes. This aligns with the findings of the Green Home Festival's survey, suggesting a widespread desire for a greener, more sustainable future in Scotland.

80% of survey participants believe higher oil and gas prices contribute to inflation and higher costs of living. As such, the shift towards cleaner, more efficient energy sources not only benefits the environment but also has the potential to alleviate economic burdens.

The Green Home Festival aims to inspire and empower homeowners to make sustainable choices, offering a platform for learning, collaboration, and action. For more information about the festival and its events, visit the Green Home Festival's website.

Survey reveals homeowners in Scotland incline towards adopting eco-friendly residences