Sustainable Design: Simple Ways to Go Green at Home and on the Road

Ever wonder if you can make your holiday cottage or hotel room a bit greener without breaking the bank? You can. Small choices add up, whether you’re picking a new eco‑home, staying in a boutique hotel, or glamping under the stars. Below are the basics you can use right now.

Choosing Eco‑Friendly Materials

First, look at what the walls, floors and roofs are made of. Wood from certified forests, reclaimed bricks, or insulated straw‑bale panels are far better for the planet than standard concrete. If you’re buying a cottage, ask the owner about the original building material – many older Scottish homes already use stone that needs little extra energy to keep warm.

When you remodel, go for low‑VOC paints and natural finishes. They keep indoor air fresh and cut down on chemicals that can leak into the environment. For flooring, cork or bamboo feels great underfoot and grows back quickly, making it a smart green swap.

Energy efficiency is another easy win. Double‑glazed windows, smart thermostats and LED lighting can cut heating bills by up to 30 %. If your budget allows, solar panels on a roof or a small wind turbine can power a cottage while you enjoy the Loch Ness view.

Travel Tips for a Sustainable Stay

When you book a place to stay, think about what makes it sustainable. Many eco‑friendly lodgings, like eco homes or yurts, use renewable energy and composting toilets. Checking the property’s description for “green building” or “energy efficient” can save you time.

Pick accommodations that support the local community. Boutique hotels and glamping cottages often source food from nearby farms, reducing food miles and giving you a taste of authentic Scottish cuisine. If you stay in a self‑catered residence, you’ll have a kitchen to cook your own meals, which cuts down on waste.

Transport matters too. Use public buses, trains or bike rentals to get around the Highlands instead of renting a car. If you must drive, look for hybrid or electric rentals available near Inverness. Even simple habits like turning off lights when you leave a room and using reusable water bottles make a difference.

Finally, respect the environment while you explore. Stick to marked trails, take any trash with you, and avoid disturbing wildlife. Small actions, like closing a campfire completely before leaving a glamping site, protect the land for future visitors.

Going green doesn’t require a massive overhaul. Start with one or two changes – a better wall material, a smarter thermostat, or choosing a locally‑run eco lodge – and watch the benefits stack up. Your next stay by Loch Ness can be comfortable, stylish, and kind to the planet at the same time.