The Beddington Zero Energy Development (BedZED) is the first zero-carbon community in the United Kingdom. Being an eco-village, BedZED is known for its environmentally-friendly design solutions and sustainable living community.
BedZED is located in Wallington, a suburban area of London. Being built on a vacant land open for housing development, the eco-village includes 100 homes, offices, community facilities and a college. The major aims of the project were to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and water use. Moreover to create an environment where people can easily adopt a sustainable way of living: produce less waste, access local food, rely less on harmful environmental energy systems and private cars. Renewable energy solutions, green transport planning, locally sourced construction materials and other environmentally-friendly initiatives have been introduced during the design and construction phase.
The eco-village has its heat and power plant that provide renewable energy, solar panels generate electricity, and energy-efficient appliances minimize the used amount. Houses are well insulated, so the heat loss is prevented. Water treatment plant and water-saving appliances support water management. The unique wind cowls located above the roofs provide fresh air circulation for interiors. These solutions not only minimize harm to the environment but also reduce energy bills.
The construction of the BedZED eco-village was achieved mostly with reclaimed, recycled or locally sourced materials. About half of the materials were sourced 35 miles away and bricks were sourced from only 20 miles. Almost all steel has been reused from buildings located within national borders. Reuse and recycled amount of construction materials achieved 3,400 tonnes – 15 per cent of entire used materials.
Being one of the largest and BedZED became an inspiration for zero-carbon housing developments. After two decades BedZED still serves as a healthy and sustainable living environment.
