Ensuring properties are future-proof: Sustainable trends for greening and eco-friendliness enhance value and quality of life
Increasing environmental demands and the desire for a better quality of life are putting sustainable land development in the spotlight. Learn how greenery and eco-friendly practices not only enhance the environmental balance but also create tangible economic benefits for owners and investors. Discover the potential for your property!
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The topic briefly and concisely
Green building (roof, facade) can increase property value by 4-12% and reduce energy costs.
Almost 9g of fine dust can be captured and 300g of CO2 converted per square metre of green roof.
State subsidies (e.g. KfW, BAFA) and municipal grants provide financial support for sustainable greening initiatives.
Have you ever wondered how your property can become not only more beautiful but also more valuable and environmentally friendly? In the face of climate change and rising energy costs, sustainable trends in properties, particularly greening and eco-friendliness, are rapidly gaining importance. This development offers enormous opportunities: from reducing operating costs and increasing property values to creating healthier living environments. This article presents specific strategies and measures on how you can future-proof your property and benefit from the diverse advantages.
Key Points: Benefits of Sustainable Landscaping
Sustainable property design is more than just a trend – it is an investment in the future. It enhances quality of life, conserves resources, and can significantly increase property value. Green properties often experience a value increase of 4% to 12%.
Green roofs: More than just a visual highlight
Green roofs are a key component for environmentally friendly properties and offer numerous benefits. They improve the microclimate by reducing ambient temperatures, thereby lowering the energy demand for cooling. Per square metre of green roofing, almost 9 grams of fine dust can be captured and 300 grams of carbon dioxide converted into oxygen. Additionally, green roofs retain rainwater, relieve the drainage system, and can double the lifespan of the roof membrane.
Two main types of green roofs are distinguished:
Extensive green roofs: With a thickness of up to 20 centimetres and a weight of up to 250 kg per square metre, they are low-maintenance and cost-effective (approximately €30-50/m²).
Intensive green roofs: Here, proper roof gardens with shrubs and trees can be created, with thicknesses ranging from 50 to 200 centimetres and a weight of up to 3000 kg per square metre (costs up to €100/m²).
The combination of solar systems with green roofing can increase the efficiency of PV modules by up to 6%, as the plants cool the roof. There are attractive grant programmes for such measures, for example, from KfW, which provides grants of up to 30% of eligible costs under the “Ökologisch Bauen (153)” programme.
Fassadenbegrünung: Vertical Gardens for a Better Urban Climate
Green facades are not only aesthetically appealing, but they also actively contribute to improving air quality and the energy efficiency of buildings. They act as natural insulation, reducing energy consumption, and can decrease noise by up to 10 dB. Ivy or Virginia creeper protect the facade from weather influences and have been shown to reduce energy costs. There are various systems available, from ground-based climbers to wall-bound systems with cassettes. Careful planning and the selection of native plants are crucial for success and ecological value. Learn more about green roofs and facade design.
Water Management: Intelligent Use of Rainwater and Greywater
A sustainable property concept includes a well-thought-out water management system. The use of rainwater and treated greywater (lightly polluted wastewater from showers or washing machines) conserves valuable drinking water resources and reduces costs. Rainwater can be used for garden irrigation, toilet flushing, and laundry washing. Cisterns and infiltration basins help to retain rainwater on the property, promoting groundwater formation and relieving the sewage system during heavy rainfall. In some municipalities, owners can benefit from reduced stormwater fees by using rainwater. The integration of renewable energies and water-saving measures is an important step.
Promoting biodiversity: Creating habitats on your own property
Promoting biodiversity is an important aspect of sustainable land design. By selecting site-appropriate native plants, you provide food and habitat for insects, birds, and other small animals. Even 15% of the area as an ecological compensation area can make a difference. The following measures support biodiversity:
Creating flower meadows instead of species-poor lawns.
Planting native shrubs and trees.
Creating small structures like stone piles or deadwood corners.
Avoiding pesticides and chemical fertilizers.
Installing bird boxes and insect hotels.
Studies show that in residential areas, a biodiversity-friendly design of at least 18% green space per square kilometer is necessary to effectively support biodiversity. You can find more information at Environmental Aspects of Properties.
Sustainable materials and construction methods: Ecological and durable
In new builds and renovations, the choice of materials plays a crucial role in environmental friendliness. Wood from sustainable forestry (recognisable by labels such as FSC or PEFC) is CO2-neutral and creates a healthy living climate. Clay, recycled building materials, or innovative materials like hemp-based substrate panels for greening are also environmentally friendly alternatives. Good insulation, for instance, using cellulose or wood fibre boards, significantly reduces heating energy requirements. Pay attention to low-pollutant products, such as paints and varnishes with the 'Blue Angel' label. Implementing energy efficiency on properties is a pressing necessity.
nachhaltige-trends-bei-grundstucken-begrunung-und-umweltfreundlichkeit
Investments in greening and eco-friendliness pay off. Apart from the previously mentioned increase in property value by 4-12% (in green surroundings up to 30%), owners can benefit from lower operating costs. Green roofs not only extend the lifespan of the roof sealing but can also reduce rainwater disposal costs and heating or cooling costs. Many measures are supported by government funding. The KfW offers low-interest loans and repayment subsidies for green roofs under the 'Energy-Efficient Renovation (151/152)' programme. The BAFA also supports environmentally friendly measures. Municipalities sometimes subsidise green roofs with up to 20 euros per square metre. A detailed analysis of the costs and benefits of eco-friendly house building is worthwhile. Unsure which measures will bring the most value to your property? An Auctoa assessment or a chat with our ImmoGPT can provide you with data-driven recommendations.
Climate adaptation through green infrastructure: Properties as part of the solution
What does a green roof cost?
The costs vary: Extensive greening costs approximately 30-50 € per square metre, while intensive greening can cost up to 100 € per square metre.
What is the impact of greening on property value?
Green properties can experience an increase in value of 4% to 12%. In a very green environment, increases of up to 30% are possible.
How does facade greening help with energy savings?
Facade greening acts as a natural insulation, protecting against heat in summer and cold in winter, thereby reducing heating and cooling costs.
Is using rainwater financially worthwhile?
Yes, by saving on drinking water fees and potentially reduced rainwater charges, rainwater usage can be financially beneficial.
Which plants are best for promoting biodiversity?
Native, site-appropriate plants are ideal as they are adapted to local conditions and provide food and habitat for local wildlife.
Where can I find information on funding programmes for my property?
You can obtain information on funding from your local municipality, the environmental ministries of the federal states, the KfW Bank, and the BAFA. Our ImmoGPT chat can also provide initial guidance.
Additional useful links
Umweltbundesamt provides comprehensive information on Green Infrastructure in the context of soil and agriculture.
Fraunhofer presents their research findings in the field of urban and spatial development.
Umweltbundesamt provides detailed information on climate adaptation at the Competence Centre on Climate Impacts and Adaptation (KomPass).
Wikipedia offers an extensive article on Green Infrastructure.
FAQ
What does a green roof cost?
The costs vary: Extensive greening costs around €30-50 per square meter, while intensive greening can cost up to €100 per square meter.
What impact does greening have on property value?
Green properties can experience a value increase of 4% to 12%. In very green surroundings, up to 30% is possible.
How does facade greening help save energy?
Facade greening acts as natural insulation, protecting against heat in the summer and cold in the winter, which can reduce heating and cooling costs.
Is rainwater harvesting financially worthwhile?
Yes, by saving on drinking water charges and potentially reduced rainwater charges, using rainwater can be financially worthwhile.
Which plants are best suited for promoting biodiversity?
Native, site-appropriate plants are ideal as they are adapted to local conditions and provide food and habitat for local wildlife.
Where can I find information on grant programs for my property?
You can obtain information about funding from your local municipality, the environmental ministries of the federal states, the KfW Bank, and the BAFA. Our ImmoGPT chat can also give you some initial guidance.
