People are more and more realizing the importance of green living. Being eco-friendly isn’t just a nice idea. This is a more than welcome attitude toward our environment. Living in such a way may sound complicated, but that isn’t true. There are plenty of simple choices you can make to become more eco-friendly, set a good example, and reduce your carbon footprint. You can start commuting or carpooling to make a difference or you could transform your house a bit. The best would be to combine these ways and do the most for the planet and yourself!
What is the carbon footprint?
The total amount of greenhouse gasses generated by the actions of an individual, community, or organization is called a carbon footprint. This includes carbon dioxide and methane. When you choose the lights for your home or take connecting flights, you are affecting your carbon footprint immensely. You can even calculate your carbon footprint and see how you stand.
If you’re worried about this, there are plenty of ways to reduce your carbon footprint in your day-to-day life. For instance, consuming less meat is a great way to get started. You can also start your own compost pile and learn how to reduce waste and help the planet easily. You can also buy second-hand clothes and invest in some pieces of higher quality.
Switch to LEDs
When it comes to your home, you should start by inspecting the home closely. Look for all the ways your home might be wasting energy. Once you find them, determine the importance of them all, your time, and your budget. That will help you prioritize properly. If you want to spend as little as possible, switching your light bulbs might be the perfect solution for you.
As incandescent bulbs burn out, you can simply replace them with LED bulbs. These are about six-time more efficient than incandescent bulbs. They will last longer as well. If you’re worried that they cost more, you should remember that this investment will pay off. As soon as the LEDs start saving energy, you’ll pay lower bills.
Use the right building materials
Another great way to live in a sustainable home is to pick the building materials carefully. If you’re just constructing a home, make sure to take your time to pick material for each corner of the home. Materials from recycled sources and recyclable materials are the obvious choice. Not only that, but they are the best choice.
Healthy materials that will last longer and save you energy are always welcome. For instance, bamboo is a great recyclable material. You could invest in quality copper roofing, bamboo flooring, and recycled glass tile for the kitchen or bathroom. You won’t hard it difficult to be eco-friendly if sustainability is in the foundations of your home.
Add insulation
Insulation is an important part of the eco-friendly home structure. Especially if you live in an old home, you should invest in insulation. It is also important in areas where the weather can get pretty cold. You’ll quickly improve heat efficiency and prevent energy waste. There are several popular areas of insulation.
Loft, cavity walls, solid walls (internal and external), and solid floor insulation are just some of them. You’ll soon maintain the desired temperature without losing the heat. Natural insulation is also possible. For example, you can insulate your home with some hemp and sheep wool efficiently.
Plant trees strategically
Even though you won’t get the results of this action quickly, it will be worth it no matter what. When you plant a tree strategically in your yard, you can lower your home’s energy consumption by up to 25%. You could easily plant some shade trees on the south and west side of the house.
This will lower the temperature in the home by simply protecting the walls and windows from the summer sun. This is also great since it can inspire you to use the air conditioner less. Air conditioners can have a terrible impact on the environment and your health, especially if they aren’t cleaned regularly.
Have a small garden
Finally, you can literally go green in your home and start growing some veggies or herbs. Depending on what you prefer the most, you could create a small and unique garden. If you live in an apartment, you can simply put some rosemary or basil on the windowsill.
You won’t need too much time for a simple eco-friendly garden and, yet, you and your home will benefit a lot. Firstly, you’ll have a very beneficial hobby. Then, you might start consuming healthier food. You could save money and buy less of imported fruits and veggies. A lot of carbon emissions and pollution go into the traveling and storing of these foods.
Conclusion
You don’t need much to change the world. All of these are simple acts that will make you feel better about yourself and your role in the environment. Make sure to give them a chance and transform your home into a green paradise!
Tags: carboon footprinteco-friendly homehealthy atmosphererenovations