With climate change becoming ever more apparent, it's more important than ever that new properties are sustainable. Not only does this help reduce the impact on the planet but it also helps the occupier save money on energy costs by ensuring better energy efficiency. Furthermore, it can help increase the value and appeal of a property.

There are several ways in which properties can be designed to be more sustainable, some of which are discussed below.

1.) Adding a good standard of insulation in lofts, walls and floors helps to minimise heat loss and therefore reduces the need for heating. It's important that a building is also airtight to further prevent any heat loss.

2.) Installing windows and doors with a low U-value will minimise heat transfer - the use of triple-glazing further reduces heat transfer as well as providing additional sound insulation.

3.) The use of heat pumps is more environmentally friendly as they work by transferring heat rather than generating it through combustion. Heat pumps can reduce carbon emissions by at least 20% when compared with gas boilers and considerably more energy efficient than the gas alternative. The use of underfloor heating can also be a more efficient way of heating a home as they distribute heat more evenly and can operate at lower temperatures.

4.) The use of solar panels produces energy by converting sunlight into electricity through a process called the photovoltaic effect. The production of energy in this way produces no greenhouse gases and so is considered a clean source of energy. The energy generated through solar panels can be stored in batteries and any excess electricity can be sent back to the grid therefore generating an additional income for the homeowner.

5.) The use of A-rated appliances can help reduce your energy consumption and bring down your energy costs. All appliances come with an energy rating from A to G, with A being the most efficient and G the least efficient. The use of an induction hop can also help to reduce energy consumption further as these are typically around three times more efficient than gas hobs.

6.) The materials used to build a home can also help with sustainability. Materials such as bamboo, timber and cork are all renewable resources and can be used in place of traditional bricks and mortar. It may also be possible to use recycled steel, wood and glass. Straw bales and sheep's wool can also be used for insulating a property in place of more traditional materials.

7.) Planting trees in your garden area can also be a good way of reducing your carbon footprint as these draw down carbon from the atmosphere. Not to mention, trees also help soak up excess rainwater and provide shade on hot summer days. Adding trees to the front of a property can also improve its kerb appeal.

8.) The use of water butts can help reduce your water consumption by collecting rainwater from guttering. This can be used to water your garden and prevents having to use a hose pipe which can lead to heavy water consumption.