The doom and gloom climate change headlines may be rightfully concerning, but we don’t have to wait for politicians to enact major policy course correction to begin making meaningful changes in our own homes and communities.
This Earth Day, check out some tips and tricks to turn your space into a more eco-friendly habitat!
Watch Your Water Intake
Sure, we need water to survive. But have you stopped to think about how much water your home needs? Not as much as we’re wasting, says American Rivers, a national organization working to create a future of clean water and healthy rivers everywhere, for everyone.
There are a few simple things you can do at home to ease the burden on your local water supply and save money in the process.
- Turn off the faucet while brushing your teeth
- Only run the washing machine and dishwasher when you have a full load
- Use a low flow shower head and faucet aerators
- Fix leaks
- Install a dual flush or low flow toilet or put a conversion kit on your existing toilet
- Don’t overwater your lawn or water during peak periods, and install rain sensors on irrigation systems
- Install a rain barrel for outdoor watering
- Plant a rain garden for catching stormwater runoff from your roof, driveway, and other hard surfaces
- Monitor your water usage on your water bill and ask your local government about a home water audit
- 10.Share your knowledge about saving water through conservation and efficiency with your neighbors
Go Energy Efficient
It’s time to upgrade those appliance and ensure you’re going energy efficient. Aside from preventing greenhouse emissions and conserving water (win, win), energy efficient appliances save you money in the long run by reducing your energy bills at home.
Not ready to invest in new washers, dryers, fridges and the like just yet? At the very least double check that all of those old incandescent light bulbs have been replaced. There’s always one hiding in that old lamp somewhere in your house…
Renovate With Consciousness
If you’re thinking of a home facelift or addition, start with an eco-friendly plan! MyMove.com has a list of considerations to make when planning a reno, including:
- Buy reclaimed materials
- Deconstruct your home – don’t demolish it!
- Re-face instead of replacing all of your furniture
- Use low voc paints
- Select high quality insulation