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The first ever ‘green shopping aisle’ has launched for environmentally friendly DIY enthusiasts – complete with a grass walkway and canopy infused with foliage and butterflies.
Donned with evergreen climbers and vegetation, the (quite literally) green aisle has been created to help eco-conscious Homebase shoppers find the section of the hardware store that will make their home more sustainable.
‘The Green Aisle’ has launched in five Homebase stores – Haringey in London, Edinburgh, Bridgend, Birmingham and Leeds – with more stores to follow.
In partnership with Smart Energy GB, it showcases energy-efficient and eco-friendly home improvement products, plus information about how to get a smart meter installed, all in one place.
The Green Aisle was created after research found 74% of Brits are keen to make their home greener, but half have no idea where to start.
‘I’ve helped hundreds of people improve their homes over the years by making small changes which have a big impact – the same is true for taking small energy-efficiency measures in the home.
‘It can be hard to know where to start when it comes to making greener choices, so The Green Aisle helps make this process even easier for people by identifying which products are more environmentally friendly, and likewise understand the positive impact they can have.
‘Whether you’re in the market for new LEDs or eco-friendly paint, something we can all do now is to speak to your energy supplier about getting a smart meter installed.
‘Each installation is a step towards a lower carbon future for Britain and can help you manage your energy use.’CRAIG PHILLIPS
DIY expert and one of the first to visit the Haringey store’s Green Aisle
Data from Energy Saving Trust show a householders can save up to £581 on energy bills each year by implementing a full range of efficiency measures, purchasing efficient appliances and exercising best practice energy saving behaviour, which can be encouraged with a smart meter.
On top of the financial savings, a household could also save 2,141kg of CO2e emissions, which is the equivalent of driving 7,500 miles or enough energy to power the lights in 27 homes in the UK for a year.
The study of 4,000 UK adults, commissioned by Smart Energy GB, also found 71% would like to make green home improvements to save money, while seven in 10 (71%) want to help the environment.
Four in 10 of those polled via OnePoll are keen to use environmentally friendly paint when redecorating.
Others are looking to install energy-efficient home appliances (38%), smart home tech (34%), a water-saving showerhead (31%) or a smart meter (29%).
‘We know that more and more of our customers are looking to make environmentally friendly decisions as they embark on home and garden improvement projects.
‘The Green Aisle not only puts some of our most sustainable and eco-friendly products all in one place for those who know what they’re looking for, but will also provide advice and inspiration, supported by our expert teams, for people who need a hand turning their green ambitions into reality.
‘Whether it’s something as simple as a draught excluder to sit at the bottom of a door, getting a smart meter installed or a bigger project such as installing new insulation, there are hundreds of ways – both big and small – that can help people make a positive difference to their home.’
CHRIS O’BOYLE
Trading director from Homebase
The Green Aisle has been introduced to coincide with the launch of the government’s Green Homes Grant scheme, with the range of items selected based on their energy efficiency credentials.
Items range from white goods and electricals through to insulation and smart appliances.
‘We’re delighted to be working with Homebase to launch the first ever ‘Green Aisle’ in 137 stores nationwide.
‘The Government’s Green Homes Grant provides investment for us to make our homes more energy efficient. But energy efficiency steps don’t always have to be expensive.
‘Contacting your energy supplier to get a smart meter installed at no additional cost will also help you to do your bit for the environment.
‘Each installation moves Britain closer to achieving a smart energy system that makes better use of renewable power and reduces our reliance on fossil fuels.’
ROBERT CHEESEWRIGHT
Smart Energy GB
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