So, when it comes to the environment, we all know that we need to be greener. But are we really living a greener life? Unfortunately, with today’s fast-paced schedules, changing and breaking the daily routine may seem like herding cats. Rather than focusing on making our lives easier, we should all try incorporating a green lifestyle into our current lives. Living an eco-friendly way can be a great way to save money and live a less consumerist lifestyle! Try these savvy eco-friendly lifestyle tips and benefit from countless benefits!
Conserve Water
Water is one of our most precious resources. Therefore it’s imperative to use it consciously. Remember to turn off the sink when you brush your teeth, wash dishes as efficiently as possible, and use the dishwasher or washing machine only when you have a full load.
If you have a grassy yard, consider a smart sprinkler system to use only the water you need. Check your sprinklers regularly to make sure a broken sprinkler isn’t throwing water onto the street instead of the plants.
Use Solar Power
If you live in an area where energy costs are high, and your home enjoys a lot of sunlight, consider a rooftop solar panel. In some states, modern solar panels can pay for their investment in as little as ten years. Once installed on your roof, solar panels produce zero emissions, which means that their impact on the environment is negligible for most of their life. For the average homeowner, solar energy is like eliminating the emissions produced by a car that travels 18,000 miles a year, which significantly benefits the environment.
Complete solar panels are not for everyone, but there are still ways to use this technology. Solar panel barbecues are slowly making their way onto the market – perfect for those who like to barbecue in their backyard. These grills can fry, cook, or boil a meal for up to eight people using only the sun’s energy.
Buy Ecological Furniture
Although it’s easy to take a mass-produced table home, the impact on the environment can be severe. Instead, look for environmentally-friendly furniture that is locally sourced and nor manufactured with harsh chemicals…furniture that helps conserve resources! The best eco-friendly furniture uses sustainable materials to reduce the earth’s impact, such as 100% natural latex, eco-friendly wool, and organic cotton, reclaimed or locally sourced wood, and recycled fabric. Once you bring furniture into your home, they also help keep the air clean because they use low-VOC finishes and do not rely on fire retardants.
Also, eco-friendly furniture is made in the United States, so you don’t have to waste energy and fuel to ship materials worldwide. You can be sure that these reputable brands control their processes and materials to ensure that they contribute to the planet’s health.
Go Reusable
It’s time to stop relying on single-use plastic, like zip-top bags, plastic cutlery, straws, and water bottles. Instead, invest in reusable versions of your daily products. You can find high-quality versions that last for years, including a plastic wrap alternative that uses beeswax. Buy reusable snack bags, water bottles, and metal straws. If you take your lunch to work, bring your own silverware from home, and pack your food in a glass Tupperware that can be microwaved. By eliminating the plastic versions from your home, it’s easy to make daily choices better for the planet. You can also cut down on paper cleaning products using cloth napkins and towels instead of paper towels or wet wipes.
Consider Composting
Do you like to garden? Composting your food scraps is an excellent option. Keeping a compost bin to put fruit and vegetable peels, eggshells, coffee grounds, or lawn clippings can help you to reuse your waste. Even if you don’t garden, look into solutions in your community where you can donate your compost, or even give it to a neighbor.
Reduce Your Chemical Usage
Unfortunately, our homes are likely already full of chemicals. From floor sealers to old paint to the cleaning products under your sink, it can slowly make indoor air quality poor. Instead, start looking for products with natural ingredients or that contain low-VOCs. The next time you’re looking to purchase furniture, seek models that don’t have these chemicals.
Heat and Cool Your Home the Smart Way
Investing in a smart thermostat like the Nest is an easy way to reduce your impact. These thermostats learn your habits with motion-sensor technology, so they only heat or cool the rooms you occupy, for the hours you’re in them. By tracking your usage via the affiliated app, you can learn how much energy you’re using and determine how you can lower it.
Most manufacturers claim that a smart thermostat could reduce your home heating and cooling energy use by at least 10-15% and that the thermostat will pay for itself in energy savings in two years or less. So there’s a bit of an investment upfront, it quickly pays off.
Going ‘green’ is about being sensible. By understanding your lifestyle needs, you can avoid waste and research appropriate products to get it right the first time.