Spring is right around the corner and while the state is currently covered in white, it’s never too early to think about how you will be going green. From learning how to repair old appliances to starting a compost bin, read on to find out some handy tips on how to do your part for the planet.
The best way to start your go green initiative is to start thinking efficiently. Not only is thinking of energy efficiency better for the environment, but it also saves on your electricity bill. Swapping conventional light bulbs for LEDs is a simple, effective way to minimize your energy costs. While they use 75 percent less energy and last 25 times longer than other bulbs, they contribute the least amount of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere of all light bulbs.
In addition to LED light bulbs, there are other ways to keep your carbon footprint low in your home. Sealing your windows to keep the heat in, lowering your thermostat when you leave the house and using power strips are all other ways to make your home’s energy more efficient.
“Grandmillenialism” is trending and while we are restoring and maintaining vintage furniture, it sets a reminder for us to repair and maintain our household appliances. Proper maintenance ensures that you won’t need to prematurely replace appliances, lessening the amount of waste that these bulky items create. Taking care of your tools, changing filters to improve their energy efficiency and keeping with home maintenance tasks are good ways to make sure your things last. It saves energy and it saves money! Consider ways to repair or refurbish damaged goods instead of immediately trashing them.
However, sometimes objects need to be replaced. When you get rid of something, consider replacing the object with an energy-efficient model. Be sure to check your community’s local waste removal and recycling rules. When in doubt, the internet can help you decide where to put waste, like oil-based paints and batteries.
Outside of repairing and recycling, another step to go green around your home can start when you are still at the store. Being conscientious of what you are shopping for can help reduce accidental waste and help save you money. Many of us are guilty of grabbing an item while we’re at the store without realizing that we already have some at home. Make inventory of what you have at home before you shop and save yourself the time of having to make a return.
There are hundreds of different ways to make your carbon footprint smaller, including:
- Instead of buying plastic water bottles, switching to a water filter pitcher will keep your water clean and has the added benefit of being cold.
- Start a garden in your yard, rather than buy from the store. Any leftovers? Donate to your local food banks!
- Start a compost bin. Easy to make and cheap, you get fresh fertilizer for your garden and create less waste.
- Change to reusable household cleaners. Use cloths or rags instead of paper towels to clean your home, invest in reusable Swiffer pads and swap out dryer sheets for wool dryer balls.
For more ways to go green, check out this handy list by The Art of Simple. When searching for a new house, ask your real estate agent if it has energy-efficient appliances and other go green initiatives.
