Part of living in the modern-day is ensuring you keep on top of your environmental concerns. If you are planning to start with some DIY in the near future and you are looking to make your home more environmentally friendly or minimize your carbon footprint there are a few essential modifications that any home can benefit from. What are these all-important alterations to reduce your carbon footprint?
Install Water Reduction Devices
It's not just one of the most expensive utilities but it's something that we can waste so much of on any given day. When you are trying to reduce your carbon footprint you've got to look at your water usage. While you can reduce your water expenditure by not running the tap while brushing your teeth, the best thing to do is to install items that can help you reuse or minimize your water output. You could install a low-flow showerhead but to go one step further you may want to consult a water tank installation company to get a rainwater tank. Taking advantage of all the water that comes from the sky is common sense. If you have got a garden you would use the rain to water your plants so why don't you go one step further? By installing a water tank you will have a neve-rending supply of water. If you can get a system that purifies water you've got free-flowing water but also you are able to cut down on your water bills.
Planting A Garden
If you don't have a garden already or you live in an apartment it's a very quick way to reduce your carbon footprint. Going back to biology class for a moment: plants absorb carbon dioxide! So if we can plant as many shrubs and flowers as humanly possible it's going to benefit us. It's something that everybody should be introducing anyway. If you can plant flowers that are friendly to bees or a small vegetable garden, you are doing what you can to minimize your carbon footprint. If you decide to go for a vegetable garden there are plenty of guides online to get you started. Part of reducing your carbon footprint is about eating organic and local produce that's in season. So if you can go one step further by growing your own fruits and vegetables in your backyard you will reduce the environmental cost massively. When you start to implement other practices, like making your own compost and minimizing the purchase of processed foods, this can help in numerous ways. And on the plus side, choosing whole foods that benefit the planet will also benefit your diet!
Installing Solar Panels
Adding Insulation To The Property
When we have concerns that the energy we use to heat up the property is escaping through the cracks in the walls, ceilings, and floors, we have to make sure the property is adequately insulated. Using as little energy as possible is vital, but luckily, it's easy to achieve. Investing in insulation is pretty straightforward but if you don't have double glazing windows, this can help as well. Also if you're concerned about the aesthetics of the property you can put rugs in any rooms that have hardwood floors. It's cost-effective and is beneficial during the winter months. Insulation can help you reduce your household bills by a significant amount. And also remember that if you're planning to save money on your utility bills you can turn the heating down by a degree or so to save a significant cost. With all of these items working together you could save a substantial amount.
Energy-Efficient Light Bulbs
Install A Smart Thermostat
If you have concerns about your energy expenditure a smart thermostat can help you to save money across the board. The great thing about smart thermostat is that they are improving with every passing year. There are many that have eco-mode settings. So if you're not at home, the temperature automatically drops. This is part of the battle in reducing your carbon footprint. And once you start to get an insight into just how much energy you are using you can make a conscious effort to cut back.
It's not too difficult to get started but when you can see just how much money you can save as well as cut back on your carbon footprint, modifying your home to accommodate significant changes can have a major impact on your life. It's not just about the home but it's about the practices you implement. You could decide to stop eating meat or unplug your devices at home. But as a starting point, charity, in terms of saving the planet, certainly begins at home.
Saving the planet can save you money
If you reduce the amount of electricity you use, you’ll also reduce the amount of money you pay for electricity. You can build on this benefit by making sure to keep track of what light companies operate in your area. Make a point of checking out their price plans at least once a year and never be afraid to switch to a better offer.
Now you’re on a roll, don’t stop at electricity, see what other options you have to “consume smarter”. For example, can you cut back on your use of “convenience” foods? These are generally more expensive than cooking at home and have a lot of plastic packaging. How about reducing your use of water? Every little change is a win for the planet and your pocket!
