Speed date a sustainability expert

Council is hosting a speed dating event like no other, helping residents book a date with leading green home architects, designers and sustainability experts on ways they can improve efficiency in their household. 

The free event at Bayside City Council on 6 October 2018, involves 15 environmental experts sharing a range of ideas during 20-minute "dates" with local homeowners. 

These experts will cover all things sustainability from reducing household energy bills through to home improvements and installations including, draught-proofing, insulation and energy efficiencies.

Mayor, Cr Laurence Evans said Council is committed to being carbon neutral by 2020 and supports any initiatives that will help reduce community greenhouse gas emissions in Bayside. 

“We’re aiming to be a leader in environmental management and be a greener, more sustainable city. 

“With our strategic objectives set out in Council’s Carbon Neutrality Action Plan we’re committed to providing the tools to our community that will help make Bayside a better place for now and the future.

“This event is a great way for people to learn ways to increase their use of renewable energy and make sustainable choices that could save money and make their home more liveable.”

Local resident, Kylie, visited the event last year and said that she was really pleased with the range of independent advice she received on the day. 

“We had been planning to make sustainable improvements, including installing solar, but didn’t know where to start. After speaking with the experts we left with the confidence to make a number of energy saving measures that has helped lower our utilities bills.”

Director of Green Moves Australia Danielle King, a sustainability consultant and educator, said the event is a great opportunity for anyone starting out on designing a new build or retrofit.

“I would advise people to plan for this event by booking in to the consultants you want to speak with, bring your plans and prepare your questions to really maximise the time and get the most out of the session.”

“There are many products to help make your home the most efficient it can be such as heating and cooling choices, window glazing, appliance purchases, and even non-toxic materials such as paint,” she said.

Bring along sketches, plans, photographs or utility bills for feedback and advice, and remember to book in.

A post-event networking session will offer additional opportunities for the community to engage with participating experts and Council staff.

Bookings can be made through the Alternative Technology Association: http://sdse.ata.org.au/sdse_event/bayside/