September brings two chances to discover what the neighbours are doing to help the environment, as 14 homes in and around Southampton open their doors to the public to showcase measures that anyone can apparently take to reduce their environmental impact.

If you’re wondering what it’s like having solar panels or running your washing machine on rainwater, the weekends offer a chance to speak to people who have already done it. And even if you don’t want to take on a big project there are plenty of simpler, practical ideas on show. For example some of the householders have very low fuel and water bills and are happy to share how they do it. The event is free and no booking is necessary.

There are also free workshops on solar energy, draught-busting (with free materials to take away), stock-free (vegan) food growing, and keeping chickens. Also opening during the event is the B&Q superhome in Bishopstoke, a 100-year-old terraced house retrofitted to meet current building standards.

This event is run by Transition Southampton, a group of volunteers working to find practical solutions to the problems of climate change and rising oil prices. Their other activities include talks, films, and workshops on areas as diverse as bike maintenance and jam making.

Southampton Sustainable Homes Open Weekends take place on September 15/16 and 22/23. For more information click here or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.