K. Chamberlain

I live in a Victorian cottage in the English countryside and while there is still much to do in terms of insulation( there is none in the walls) we have made a good start towards living with peak oil. We have greatly increased the insulation in the attic and added double glazing throughout. Our heating is 100% renewable from a woodburner and we try to get as much wood from our land as possible. Our water is from our own borehole though we purchase electricity from the grid ( from a green supplier). We have only low energy bulbs, turn off the lights/appliances when not in use, have no clothes dryer or dishwasher and only put the hot water on for an hour a day. Dishes and clothes only get washed when there is enough to make up a load. We planted over 500 trees on our land about 7 years ago not only to help counter climate change but for wildlife and the sheer beauty and enjoyment that it brings. We also have an organic fruit orchard that we are adding to every year. I monitor our electric usage everyday and try to keep under 7-8 units in the winter( less for summer). I have reduced my trips into town and try to plan multiple tasks when I do go to make it worthwhile. We have an organic vegetable garden and compost pile, recycle where we can, try to buy local where possible and I am a vegetarian. All garden items are watered from our waterbutts( collects rainwater). I have seriously reduced my consumption of "things" . I love to read and now get virtually all of my books from the library system . My husband gets most of his clothes used, from friends and I sew as well. I also cut our hair and try to save money/ resources in other ways where I can. We decided not to have children and we have a rescue dog. We have joined a local transition town movement. Unfortunately, my husband is self-employed and needs to drive to his work which does add to fuel consumed. I used to fly abroad every year to my native Canada (not for a holiday per se but to visit family and always stayed for at least a month) but now I go every two years. While we have made great strides, I feel there is still so much more to do.