With daily news of bush fires in Australia, wildfires in California, melting glaciers and historic floods, more and more people are recognizing that climate change will have a big impact on their lives and the lives of future generations. Interest in eco-friendly approaches to living is now at an all-time high and indications are that people are looking to take action. As they research possible ways of helping, people are increasingly turning their focus toward sustainable living as a way to minimize their impact on the planet. They are discovering that even small changes can help make a big improvement collectively and contribute to making the world we live in a better place.
Install Home Solar System for Renewable Energy
When you use electricity at home, you are typically relying on power that was produced using fossil fuels that are contributing to greenhouse gases and global warming. Solar power, on the other hand, harnesses the power of the sun and provides a green, renewable form of energy. With the right solar system, you can power your entire home and you may even be able to contribute clean energy back to the grid.
The downside to solar is that it is quite expensive to install but you’ll make huge savings in the long-term. If you’ve got a reserve of cash stashed away for a rainy day, using your funds to invest in solar power is a good way to put your money to work for you now. If you’ve got student debt to pay off, you might want to think about refinancing your loan. By researching current offers and finding the right lender, you can substantially reduce your monthly loan payment and save thousands or even tens of thousands over the course of the loan. Whether you have savings or you choose to refinance, finding a way to install solar energy will prove to be a very wise investment.
Reducing Energy Usage
Taking steps to reduce your daily electricity use is a great way to start on the path to being more eco-friendly. When temperatures are moderate you can add an extra layer of clothing on days that are cooler instead of firing up your heating system. On warmer days, open the windows early and late at night to get a cross-breeze going that will cool the house without A/C. You can also save on electricity by unplugging items when they are not in use. Computers especially use a lot of energy, and you can also unplug chargers, the microwave and other electrical devices too. Other tips include using a drying rack instead of a dryer and installing LED or CFL lighting throughout your home.
Conserve Water
If you are wanting to save water and add to the beauty and value of your home, consider investing in eco-friendly landscaping. By selecting flowers and shrubs that require little irrigation and planting trees that provide shade for the house, you can move from a water hungry lawn to a sustainable garden oasis. Installing a rain barrel water collection system can also help save resources and may provide the irrigation you need for your outdoor space. Inside the home, it’s important to take a look and see how you can conserve water too. Simple adjustments like turning off the faucet when you are brushing your teeth can save a substantial amount of this precious resource over the course of the year. Additionally, consider installing low flow toilets and showers throughout your home. Over time, these seemingly small changes can make a huge difference to your carbon footprint and your monthly expenses.
