It’s nearly impossible to escape the constant message that we need to take better care of our planet, but many people become overwhelmed with the multitude of ways presented to “go green”. Although it might not seem like it, small actions do benefit the environment, and starting with a minor change is a step in the right direction. Below are some easy and inexpensive ways to make your home green.
Change Your Eating Habits
Small changes in your eating habits can reduce the amount of waste you produce and can also lessen demands on energy consumption.
- Buy foods in bulk to reduce packaging that eventually makes its way to landfills.
- Buy locally-sourced meats and vegetables. Supporting local farmers in your community reduces fuel consumption and pollution since food does not have to be transported as far.
- Drink water from reusable bottles instead of disposable plastic bottles.
Reduce Energy Consumption
It’s easier than you might think to make your home more energy efficient. You can do lots of easy, inexpensive things that will add up to big reductions in energy consumption.
- Keep your refrigerator away from direct sunlight or the stove. Exposure to heat from the sun or your stove makes the fridge’s compressor work overtime.
- Use the dishwasher. It might be surprising to learn that washing a full load of dishes in the dishwasher is more energy efficient than washing them by hand, especially if you have an Energy Star dishwasher.
- Change your air filter at least every three months. A clogged filter reduces air flow which causes your heating and air conditioning system to use more energy.
- Install a programmable thermostat and program it to reduce heating and cooling when you’re away from home.
- Clean the lint trap to increase your dryer’s efficiency by as much as 30 percent.