Horizon, located in inner London, uses the latest in environmental constructional methods to reduce the development’s carbon footprint. This includes solar panels to provide energy to the communal areas of the building, which will reduce purchaser’s annual service charge. Horizon also features a green roof made of a layer of soil and grass which reduces heating and cooling loads on a building, filters pollutants and CO2 out of the air and increases wildlife habitat in built-up areas. The homes are available to purchase on a shared ownership basis.

• zero-carbon

Renewable energy sources in the form of solar panels are used on the development to reduce Horizon’s carbon footprint. The development features a green roof made up of a layer of soil and grass, which will filter pollutants and CO2 out of the air.

• zero-waste

Building material waste has been recycled in this development to ensure less wastage during the development process.

• sustainable water

The ‘green’ roof with a layer of soil and grass will reduce storm water run-off and filter pollutants out of rainwater. Water running off from the bike shed roof is fed into the water butt, to be used for communal use around the gardens and for the bikes.

• local and sustainable building materials

FSC accredited timber has been used for structural purposes where appropriate.

• sustainable transport

Bicycle racks with an overhead roof are provided just outside the development.

A second-home development set within a 450-acre nature reserve in the Cotswolds. Each home is designed (by RIBA architect Richard Reid) and built with the environment at the forefront. Traditional techniques and renewable materials help make these modernist homes ecologically sound and great to live in.

• zero-carbon

Not yet zero-carbon, the Estate is investigating emerging technologies. The designs incorporate natural daylight and heat/air flow, reducing the need for power. For each house built six trees are planted.

• zero-waste

Some building waste is recycled, and throughout the Estate there are recycling points for residents. Compost heaps are used on the allotments, as well as being used as wildlife refuges.

• sustainable water

All kitchen and bathroom fittings and appliances are low water usage and AA rated. All planting is drought tolerant. Rainwater butts are now being fitted to all houses as standard.

• local and sustainable building materials

All the timber used for building and log burners is sustainable. Local stone is used where possible. Sheep's wool insulation is used as standard.

• sustainable transport

Bicycles are encouraged with stands throughout the Estate. Residents have a well-stocked shop with local produce to reduce the need to drive to the nearby town for supplies.

Located close to Oxford city centre, NinetyOne achieves an Ecohomes ‘Excellent’ rating through initiatives including air tightness, recycling programmes, water conservation and harvesting and the employment of local contractors.

• zero-carbon

Air tightness, thermal and sound insulation are all to a much higher standard than building regulations require, providing reduced energy use and CO2 emissions.

• zero-waste

A recycling programme is implemented where the bin stores are compartmentalised for daily waste: paper, glass, household waste etc.

• sustainable water

Water flow restriction applied on all taps and showers. SUDS drainage system controls water wastage, putting runoff back into the water table rather than sewerage. Water butts have been provisioned as rainwater entrapment.

• local and sustainable building materials

Locally sourced materials will be used where available. Local labour used, contractor based in Oxford.

• sustainable transport

Developer says bicycle storage has been provided for residents.