Scientists all across the world continue to warn us of the perils we will inevitably face if we do not act in a timely fashion. We only have one planet and, sadly, we’re not doing all that we can to take care of it.
Although business conglomerates and governments have the largest role to play in protecting the environment and reversing some of the damage we have inflicted, we, as citizens of the world, can also do our part to help.
Here are five ways that you can make your home eco-friendlier…
Make Use of Renewable Energy Sources
One of the easiest ways to make your home more environmentally friendly is by switching to greener sources of energy. This can be achieved in two distinct ways. Firstly, you can ask your energy provider if they have an option to source your energy from a set of renewable power sources.
Adversely, you can take matters into your own hands and install solar panels on your roof. Some state programs, like the Oregon solar program, offer attractive incentives for individuals looking to install these plaques.
Eliminate Plastic and Food Waste
One of the greatest polluters in this world is plastic and the average person in the United States produces approximately 2,072 pounds of trash every year. Many times, we don’t even notice how much waste we actually produce. Try to be more conscious when you’re doing your groceries and opt for products that have less plastic packaging.
It’s not only important to be conscious of your plastic waste but also your food waste. Unfortunately, food wastage is also a massive issue in the U.S, as nearly 40 million tons ends up in landfills every year. Check out these recipes to find out how you can ensure you make the most of every ingredient in your fridge.
Be More Conscious Of Your Weekly Meals
You can also become an eco-friendlier household by cutting down on your consumption of meat. This may be one of the more difficult ways to adjust to a more environmentally friendly lifestyle, however, it’s also one of the most impactful ways you can make a difference.
You don’t have to switch to a plant-based diet entirely, but simply cutting down to two or three meat meals every year can make a great difference. Not only is a plant-based diet better for the planet, but it’s also been proven to be beneficial for your health. Nowadays, there are plenty of meat and dairy alternatives at the supermarket, so there are no excuses when it comes to adopting a healthier lifestyle.
Swap Your Regular Light Bulbs for LED Bulbs
This is probably the easiest trick in the book when it comes to creating a more energy efficient home. All you need to do is pay your nearest Home Depot a visit and purchase a few sets of LED light bulbs.
These bulbs used to get a bad reputation for their harsh colouring, however, modern LED models are almost impossible to differentiate from traditional ones. You can now purchase these in a range of colours, shapes, and sizes. Not only will the planet appreciate the switch to LED bulbs, but so will your wallet as these bulbs are more cost-effective.
Hang Your Washing Up Outside When Possible
Your washer and dryer are some of the largest sources of energy that add up at the end of the month. You can save considerable amounts of energy by skipping the dryer and going directly to the washing line outside.
This may not always be a feasible option for every household, especially if you live in a harsher winter climate, however, it’s important that you make the most of every moment of sunshine. Another top tip is to wash your clothes in cold water instead of hot water.
All in all, the time to act is now. Even if those around you aren’t doing enough to help, it’s up to us to believe in our moral compass and make the changes we wish to see in the world. This is especially true for households that have young children, as their future is in your hands.
Not only can you make changes in your own home, but you can also incentivize others to do the same. Start a local campaign in your neighborhood and see how you can all make changes to help the environment. Remember, every little change counts and, together, we can make a big difference.
