Environment

UK's National Trust to insulate every castle in the country

by amyjudd | February 7, 2009 at 02:59 pm

213 views | 15 Recommendations | 8 comments

The National Trust in the UK is going to insulate every mansion, light house, castle and farm that is in public ownership within the next five years, to make them more environmentally friendly and to save on energy bills.

The Trust has more than five thousand buildings to revonate now and they will first look at the insulation problems and draught proofing the chimneys and also the double glazing. There will also be an effort to save water by fitting flow-restricted taps and using rain water. They also want to fit energy saving lightbulbs and if they use wood heating, to use only local wood.

Although it will not be possible to make changes to historic buildings, for example double glazing, alternatives can be found such as temporary glazing on windows in the winter or using natural products such as sheep's wool as insulation.

Stephen Kane, deputy head of buildings at the National Trust, said the "mammoth task" will have to be sensitively done but will ensure properties are prepared for high energy prices, water shortages and climate change. It will also provide inspiration for visitors renovating their own homes.

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158

at 15:28 on February 7th, 2009

This will be a big and expensive project.

fillbee

at 15:41 on February 7th, 2009

Its sounds very worthwhile and should be commended

fillbee has contributed a photo to this story.

etrusia_uk

at 16:16 on February 7th, 2009

It will be interesting to see how they manage this.

Barry Artiste

at 17:00 on February 7th, 2009

Though a great idea, some may take exception to this idea and the multi millions spent on it, when there is a population unemployed, hungry, and perhaps homeless.

Holy Crap, I think Moon just hi jacked my computer!

Pythiian1

at 22:07 on February 7th, 2009

The National Trust has a great approach in being an example for people to renovate their own homes.

_DaveAdams

at 02:03 on February 8th, 2009

The National Trust, funded mainly through its membership package and through donations from the public, needs to find a way to reduce its costs, especially during the financial credit crunch. By insulating its buildings and cutting its heating costs, it will not only save money but also reduce its environmental overhead.

_DaveAdams has contributed a photo to this story.

Rory Francis (not verified)

at 02:13 on February 8th, 2009

This sounds like a great project. The National Trust is concerned with the conservation of the natural environment as well as notable and historic buildings. As such, it's quite right that the Trust should be showing a lead by insulating its own buildings, including historic ones. The twin challenges of climate change and depletion of resources mean that all of us as a global community need to change the way we live. It's good to see the National Trust taking a lead. And yes, I'm delighted for you to use my photo in promoting this.