Sustainability

Many of our planets resources are being depleted faster than they can be replaced. Sustainability is the practice of using natural resources responsibly, so they can support both present and future generations.

Hygge Eco Cabins has spent considerable effort researching and implementing sustainable practices in all aspects of the development and running of the facility. A continuous improvement process is crucial in meeting our sustainability goals and we encourage our guests to provide feedback and ideas so we can make further progress.

In designing the cabins, it was important to consider both the products being used and the design of the building. Creating a structure with a high thermal energy rating was paramount in using less resources to heat and cool the inside. Consideration was given to the lifecycle of the products used, with natural and sustainable products being the preference, followed by their ability to be recycled. The manufacturing processes of products used was also examined to ensure that it occurred without adverse effects on the environment such as polluting waterways and excessive resource waste. 

In addition, an extensive environmental audit of the site was conducted by specialists Narla Environmental, to determine the flora and fauna considerations of the build. It was of upmost importance that there were no long-term negative effects on the land and surrounding environment. 

The following are just some of the areas where sustainability was incorporated into the build:

Cabin Design

The roof was designed specifically to eliminate the standard cavity between ceiling and the outside barrier (seen in most houses) which is a major source of heat transfer. The use of Versiclad Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) insulation delivers extremely high thermal energy savings, is long lasting and is able to be recycled up to 7 times. The heated concrete floors create a thermal mass that, once brought to temperature, requires minimal energy to maintain constancy. 

Site Choice 

The cabins were positioned on previously disturbed land within the property. A careful management plan was implemented during the building phase to protect the natural bush on the block as well as the areas containing artifacts of Aboriginal significance. Plans to regenerate the bush environment around the new structures are currently being rolled out. 

Water Catchment

Each cabin has a 4000L water tank that fills via roof catchment and undergoes a four-part filtration process to ensure water quality is at its best. Should cabin tanks run dry, they are gravity fed by a main 167,000L water tank at the highest point of the property which captures water from the managers residence, shed and substantial outbuildings. 

Solar Energy

Each cabin is powered by 10kw roof mounted solar panels with a backup connection to the mains supply powered by nearby wind turbines and the Snowy Hydro Energy Scheme. A ground based solar farm on the property is currently under construction to meet the gap in requirements and once fully completed, a solar battery and storage system will ensure the facility is able to produce and store its own constant supply of energy. 

Deck Material

The boards used for our decks are sustainably crafted from a composite of recycled wood fibres (waste product from mills) and polymer materials. They are extremely resistant to extreme temperatures, long lasting, anti-slip and low maintenance. 

Bulk Ordering to Reduce Transportation

Throughout the building process carefull planning ensured that transportation and delivery of products and materials was combined where possible to reduce the number of trips required. This not only led to reduction in delivery costs but the reduction of emissions from delivery vehicles. 

We have a major role to play within our everyday practices in ensuring a sustainable future for generations to come. Our commitment to environmental and socially sustainable practices is found in all areas of our operations. We ask guest to adhere to our defined practices as well as contribute possible ideas and inclusions for future practice as part of a continuous improvement process.

Furnishings

Where possible we have chosen naturally-occurring fibres for our bedding and linen choices. This includes 100% cotton, linen and goose down products that have been sourced from ethically and sustainably sound suppliers.  In some cases, such as with some of our throw rugs and blinds, we have chosen recycled polyester products to reduce new resource usage.

Appliances have been purchased with energy efficiency and water conservation in mind using the Australian Government’s Equipment Energy Efficiency (E3) Program Energy and Water Rating. No appliances less than a 4-star rating have been included in the cabins. 

Everyday Practices

Lighting

We ask guests to assess the necessity for ANY lighting before activating any lights. The cabins have been designed to maximise natural light, so guests should stop and ask themselves ‘Can I see?’ before flicking the switch. Guests should also turn off all lights at the end of the day and when leaving the building. 

All lighting uses LED energy-efficient bulbs that last longer and require less replacements. 

Heating and Cooling

The cabins have been built with the utmost attention to energy efficiency. We ask guest to respect and appreciate all of the features that have been installed to reduce our impact on the environment. Underfloor heating is centrally controlled with a thermostat to create an ambient temperature between 20-23℃. Guests should refrain from using the split system air-conditioner to moderate the temperature and think about regulating using windows and blinds where necessary.

Regular maintenance, monitoring and optimisation of heating and cooling appliances and power consumption will ensure all are running efficiently and effectively.

Water Usage

Water usage should be minimised where possible. Hygge Eco Cabins has installed extensive rainwater tanks and filtration systems and consideration should be given to the running of taps and length of showers etc. Guests are also encouraged to enjoy our pristine water and use reusable water bottles instead of individual plastic ones. Dishwashers should only be run when they are full so avoid wasting water. 

Consumables

We ask everyone to think before purchasing products considering that any packaging must be either reusable (best), compostable (OK) or at least recyclable. Consumable resources should ideally be made from recycled content or at least from renewable sources.

Coffee Pods

Single use compostable coffee pods are provided on arrival and more can be purchased upon request. A refillable coffee pod and tamper is also provided in each cabin.

Waste Management

The reduction of waste is at the fore of our workplace practices and the use of responsibly sourced renewable resources is a must. We have implemented environmentally responsible waste management practices based around the 4R’s—Refuse, Reduce, Reuse and Recycle and we ask guests to be on board with our commitments to do the following: 

1. Use 100% recycled bamboo toilet paper, tissue and paper towel products in cabins.

2. Use reusable bamboo/cotton mix dish clothes in cabins.

3. Use plant-based, recyclable or compostable kitchen products such as baking paper, food wrap and foil.

4. Use only eco-friendly, biodegradable cleaning and guest amenities products that maintain the pristine waters in the surrounding environment.

5. Use refillable containers where possible and if not use containers that have been or can be recycled. 

6. Install and use recycling bins and provide guest education information for correct recycling practices in all cabins.

7. Compost all food scraps using appropriate bins in the cabins.