In recent years, the term “sustainable housing” has entered the vocabulary of real estate professionals. Amplified by an increasingly marked ecological awareness among young people, student residences now wish to review their housing offer in order to meet energy and ecological issues. Indeed, the students are very attached to having an eco-responsible behavior in view of the climatic challenges.

What is sustainable housing?

Sustainable housing is the term used to designate a “green” habitat, respectful of its environment and low in energy consumption. This reduces the consumption of non-renewable and increasingly rare raw materials, as well as greenhouse gas emissions. For the tenant, the lower energy consumption leads to a reduction in consumption charges such as electricity or heating.

For new or old homes

An old dwelling can also be considered as a durable dwelling, provided that some work is done, in particular insulation work.

For new housing, the “BBC” label makes it possible to identify housing that is better insulated and ventilated, and therefore less energy-intensive. This label has been mandatory for new constructions since 2013, and is currently the furthest ahead of current thermal regulations. However, these accommodations cost 10 to 15% more than traditional accommodation. In return, the tenant will have less to spend on rental charges.

Sustainable student housing

The student housing sector is facing major challenges: on the one hand, the requirement to build more environmentally friendly housing and, on the other hand, the pressure of having to meet growing demand for housing. Atypical housing solutions, such as container residences, have emerged to meet these two challenges.

However, more traditional housing can also claim the “sustainable” label. Architects and developers may be interested in the materials to be used for these residences. The latter allow recycling without requiring transformation, and present themselves as an optimal solution. For example, wood is an accessible, durable and low-cost material. The use of photovoltaic panels and solar panels can also be a way to develop and help to limit energy consumption.

Student residences are also aware that they are part of a specific neighborhood community. Thus, many residences launch projects in partnership with local actors to set up actions that support ecology. For example, tenants can get fruits and vegetables directly from local producers, or donate objects. New technologies support awareness of energy consumption. Indeed, some are thinking about equipping themselves with home automation and offering students the possibility of adjusting their heating remotely and monitoring water and electricity consumption in real time from their mobile phone, which would allow more decision-making. responsible.