The world stands on the brink of an environmental crisis and the scale of the problem is daunting. But if everyone their part, the cumulative benefit to the environment would be far-reaching, And where better to start than in own homes?

A must-have reference book with the most up-to-date information plus inspirational photographs, Eco proves that sustainability in the home is both achievable and beautiful. In the part – Design – Elizabeth Wilhide focuses on the fundamentals to be considered, whether you are planning home improvements or building a house from scratch. These include siting, construction, energy efficiency, water and waste, even gardening and landscaping. Fifteen case studies demonstrate how architects from around the world have tackled these issues and succeeded in creating sustainable yet aspirational, liveable homes.

The second part – Surfaces and finishes – provides an illustrated directory of the materials and surface finishes that are available to the eco-conscious homeowner, ranging from wood, bamboo, paper and natural fibres to stone, linoleum, glass, metal, recycled plastic and concrete.

Finally, In Practice offers strategies for eco-living that deliver maximum benefit with minimal changes of lifestyle. These are the strategies – reducing consumption, repairing rather than replacing, replacing, recycling wherever possible – that everyone can adopt, whatever sort of home they live in.

Whether you follow Eco to the letter or adopt a more piecemeal approach, you can relax in the Knwledge that every little counts. You will enjoy lower fuel bills and fewer allergy-related illnesses, but above all, you will be helping to make the world a healthier place for future generations.

Elizabeth Wilhide is the author and co-author of many acclaimed books on design and interiors, including Materials, also published by Quadrille. Her other books include Creating Space, Contemporary Decorating, The Flooring Book and Lighting and she contributed to many of Terence Conran's books, including Terence Conran's Essential House Book and Terence Conran on Design.