ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY FEATURES

At One World Backpackers we are committed to ensuring that our impact and that of our guests on the environment is kept to a minimum. We have endeavoured during the restoration of the building to incorporate as many environmentally friendly features as possible given the age and nature of the building. We have paid particular attention to the climatic and environmental factors that influence Perth, in particular the long hot summers and the severe water shortages we face. These features we believe increase the amenity to our guests and include:

A state of the art solar gas combination hot water system that given Perth's sunny climate enables us to rely on the sun for much of the year to provide us with steaming hot water. Only on cloudy or wintry days do the gas boosters need to function to supplement the hot water supply. This significantly reduces our contribution to greenhouse gases.

To help reduce water usage both inside and outside the house we have:
a) All shower heads have AAA water usage ratings - the highest you can get! They reduce water consumption by over 50% whilst it still feels like your getting plenty of hot water. Now used in many of the Hilton and Sheraton hotels.
b) All toilet cisterns have AAA ratings.
c) A small pump is connected to the ring main to constantly circulate hot water around the building ensuring minimal water is wasted while waiting for hot water to arrive at the tap.
d) The front garden is landscaped with predominantly native Australian plants that are suited to the climate and therefore require minimal watering. Irrigation to these plants is provided by an efficient 'dripper' system reducing water wastage due to evaporation.

A recycling program that currently allows glass, paper, plastic and metals to be recycled. We are currently trying to devise a system that can cater with the organic waste generated by the hostel. This may include composting, worm farms or removal of the waste to an organic farm in the city.

Planet Ark™ cleaning products that rely on fibre technology and water are widely used thus minimising the use of chemicals. Where chemical cleaning products are used we ensure they are bio-degradable and phosphorous free.

Water based rather than solvent based products were used to seal the timber floor boards.

The building is fully insulated in the roof area to help reduce heating and cooling costs.

Energy efficient light globes are used extensively and reduce power consumption by up to 85%.

Awnings over north facing windows are used to reduce the heat load in summer.

Many of the building products used in the restoration are recycled materials.