Going green makes excellent environmental sense with the average home-owner not only saving a considerable amount of money, but helping the earth remain in its pristine state. There are lots of simple ways you can make the move towards sustainability. For inspiration on the latest best practice, check out an eco-screen display at a green building in your neighbourhood; you will see animations and real time graphs demonstrating the energy saving components of the building. For now, you can start implementing these simple tips today.
Climate Control
Insulation will make a huge difference to the temperature in your home, helping to keep it cool in summer and warm in winter. By installing batts or blankets in your ceiling, you’ll cut down on heating and cooling costs, and reduce your carbon footprint. Blinds, awnings and screens will also help guard your home from overheating from the sun and will also protect paint and furnishings from fading; click here to check out some of the trendy new designs available.Let There Be Light
Use the lowest wattage light bulbs you can for your needs. This is a simple and hassle-free way to save money and electricity. These will fit standard sockets and consume far less energy. Fluorescent lights are also more energy-efficient than regular bulbs and although they may be more expensive at the outset, they will save you dollars in the long run. If you have a dark room it may be worth the investment to install a skylight. This will allow your room to be brightened with natural light instead of having to use electric bulbs.Go Solar
No discussion on creating an eco-friendly home can be complete without talking about solar power. Solar panels can provide hot water for your home as well as clean energy to run your appliances. Some homeowners have even invested in extra solar panels so they can sell excess power back to the grid.Re-use, Re-use
We have come to live in a very disposable society. One of the most significant things you can do to be eco-friendly in your home is to stop throwing everything away. Don’t replace items unless they are worn out. Give workable items away to second-hand stores rather than adding to landfill. And if you need anything, always check out thrift and antique stores first. Many used items will have more character than brand new furnishings. Learn to be handy and you can fix things; redecorate old, tired furnishings; and generally breathe fresh life into used items.Recycle
While most of us use our recycling bins religiously there are other ways to recycle. Why not create a compost area and turn your food scraps into fertiliser? Take anything you don’t need to the thrift shop and see if anyone in your area can use your second hand things in their business. Some business owners can make use of things like second hand computer and car parts for instance. You will be amazed what a bit of research might turn up. Remember, going green isn’t necessarily about buying new environmentally-friendly products for your home. It’s much more about education, learning what is harmful to the planet, and what you can do to minimise that harm. It’s about re-using and recycling, about less is more.If you enjoy my blog, please consider following me on Bloglovin'
