Having plants in homes 'could reduce energy bills' - 27/05/2011
Energy comparison customers might be able to see a difference in their household bills by introducing plants into the home, the Royal Horticultural Society has suggested.
Dr Roger Williams, head of science at the organisation, said the process of evaporating moisture off plant leaves reduces the air temperature, which could lessen the need for air conditioning in the warmer months.
"Plants can [also] provide insulation. The right sorts of climbers at the right elevation on a building can also help to insulate it," he explained.
"The combined effect of cooling and insulating can really quite significantly reduce the energy associated with cooling and heating buildings."
Dr Williams said just the presence of plants is enough to have an effect, so domestic energy users could provide window boxes or pots on their balconies full of flowers and small shrubs.
His remarks come amidst the Chelsea Flower Show, which is taking place between May 24th and 28th in London.
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