There has been a lot of talk surrounding the environment and sustainability. One good thing that has come from this is the increased awareness of the need to be more environmentally conscious in our day to day lives.
It’s indeed time to do your part. Because charity begins at home, here are seven tips to make your home more eco friendly.
Re-Think Water Use
People often assume that sustainability begins and ends with energy. This is far from the truth. To be truly eco-friendly means taking a holistic approach to your utilization of natural resources.
This means getting serious about saving water as well.
One thing you can do is fix any leaks on taps as soon as you notice them. Lifestyle changes can contribute to sustainability, as well. Simple things like turning the water off when soaping yourself or brushing your teeth are helpful. Also, be sure to install low flow showerheads.
Furnish Sustainably
As more companies start to think green, customers are getting more green options when they shop for virtually everything-furniture included.
Think about the materials used to make your furniture, its durability, and recyclability. Ultimately, you want an option that delivers the least damage to the environment and one whose disposal will create the least harm to the environment. If you are thinking of buying a bed, an Ecosa bed base is one of the most eco-friendly options you can get.
Get Energy Efficient Light Bulbs
Some energy-efficient light bulbs use 20%- 80% less energy than traditional bulbs.
With these, you get to reduce your household’s carbon emissions, as well as your energy bills. It’s a classic win-win situation.
You don’t need to sacrifice your preferences either. Technology has ensured that you can get these energy-efficient bulbs in different colors and light levels just as you would have traditional bulbs.
Go for Natural Cleaning Products
Once you use harsh chemical cleaners, the residue ends up back in the water supply.
Granted, the water will not be used as-is. However, to make it safe again, it will require more purification processes.
A better option for the environment and your family is to find safer cleaning options. Bicarbonate of soda, vinegar, and citric acid are great for common household needs.
Insulate Properly
Investing in good insulation is among the smartest ways to increase your home’s eco-friendliness. Good insulation ensures your house retains heat, meaning you don’t have to reheat your home. This lowers your energy bill.
Walls, roofs, and windows are among the places you need to focus on when it comes to evaluating your home’s insulation. Double glazing windows and using area rugs are simple ways to prevent heat from escaping.
Buy Recycled
Many companies have stepped up to produce new goods from recycling. Things like toilet paper, mattresses, and paper towels have recycled options and are of good quality. Save for these; you can also get recycled gaming consoles and mobile phones.
Be sure to separate your household waste for recycling as well. This should be a last resort after you have reduced and reused.
Save Food
$218 billion worth of food is dumped each year in the US.
Throwing away food happens to the best of us. You do your weekly shopping with the intention of only buying what you need. However, a few days into the week, you find some of what you bought getting moldy, which then ends up in the garbage bin.
Make a conscious effort to learn what your family’s food needs are so you can shop only for what will be consumed while it’s still fresh.
Every Effort Matters
While each of these efforts seems to do little for the environment, collectively, every little effort you make matters in the grand scheme of things. Make sure that you are consistent and always be on the lookout for other things you can do to create a greener world.
