Climate change is a real issue that people need to take notice of. If you’re not doing your bit for the environment, the consequences can be severe in the long run, so it’s important that you try and live as eco-friendly as possible. While you may think that recycling your waste is more than enough, there are tons of other changes that you can make to both your lifestyle and property, which can help reduce your carbon footprint and save money on your energy bills. With that in mind, here are 10 positive changes that you can make to live a more eco-friendly life.
Turn Off Electrical Equipment
In the modern world we live in, many of us can’t go without our electrical devices. If you’re the type of person who lives and breathes all things tech-related, it’s likely that you’re using a lot of electricity with the gadgets you have plugged in or leave charging. While you may not think it’s a big issue, leaving your chargers plugged in and switched on can be wasting tons of valuable energy. Therefore, before you call it a night, make sure you go around your property ensuring that any electrical devices and equipment are either switched off or unplugged.
Start Your Own Compost Heap
If you’re a foodie, it’s likely that you’re always in the kitchen cooking up some delicious meals. If you have any food that’s past its sell by date, instead of throwing it in the garbage can, why not compost it instead? Not only will this help to create a natural fertilizer, but it can keep your backyard green and healthy. What’s more, it will reduce how much waste is being sent to landfill, helping you to lead a more eco-friendly way of life.
Recycle Everything
If you’re serious about reducing your carbon footprint, it’s likely that you’re already aware of all the benefits that recycling can bring. What you may not know however, is that pretty much anything can be recycled. Whether you have batteries that are collecting dust on the shelf, or paper that’s never going to be used, recycling anything that you don’t use can make a real difference and help you be more environmentally aware. You can even sell your old iPad when you get a new one, so that someone else can make good use of it rather than it going to landfill.
Steer Clear Of Plastic
No matter what we seem to purchase, plastic has found its way into practically every area of our lives. However, while you may think giving it up will be difficult, there are tons of changes that you can make which can make things easier. When you go grocery shopping, why not bring a canvas bag along with you? You can also purchase your fruit and vegetables loose and stop purchasing bottled water. The more changes you make, the better!
Use LED Light Bulbs
If you’re the type of person who uses conventional light bulbs, it’s likely that you’re having to change them more frequently. Another great way to reduce your carbon footprint and do your bit for the environment is by opting for LED light bulbs instead. Not only do they require less power to run, you won’t have the change them as often. Also, they’re available in a variety of brightness levels and designs, meaning you can tailor the lighting to suit the room and ambience in your home.
Install Solar Panels
If an eco-home is what you’re after, solar panels are a must-have addition to your property. Once you have installed solar panels on your roof, you can be confident in the knowledge that you’re using completely clean electricity. What’s more, you may make enough energy which you can sell back to the grid. While it’s an expensive change to carry out, you need to think of it as a good investment, especially when it comes to improving your green credentials.
Replace Your Roof
The roof on your home is one of the most expensive parts, so it’s important that you keep an eye on it to ensure it’s in good condition. If you’ve noticed any leaks or cracks, it’s best that you replace the roof immediately. Not only can replacing your roof help boost your curb appeal, but it can make your home more energy efficient too. No one likes to be faced with high energy bills at the end of the month, so replacing your roof can help cut costs, giving you peace of mind.
If replacing your roof is at the top of your list, you may wish to check out Semper Solaris who are a roofing company that offers free quotes. They can help give you more information regarding the roofing installation process, helping you to figure out whether it’s the right option to go down. Semper Solaris have a dedicated team who are known for providing high quality roofing services to residents across California.
Purchase Eco-Friendly Cleaning Products
When it comes to keeping your house clean and tidy, the last thing you want to be doing is using harmful toxins and chemicals. These types of chemicals aren’t environmentally friendly, not to mention hard to dispose of too, therefore, swapping to greener cleaning products that use more organic and natural methods of cleaning can help you on your eco-friendly journey. There are tons of natural products that can leave your home looking as good as new, such as baking soda, natural salt, and white vinegar.
Be Savvy With Your Water
If you live as a family, keeping an eye on your water consumption is crucial, especially if you’re wanting to make a difference and be more environmentally aware. If you aren’t sure where to start, why not cut your showers down by a minute or two, or refrain from having a soak in the bath. After all, the less water you use, the less money you will have to shell out at the end of the month. Many families who are savvy with their water can see their water bills slashed in half!
Switch To Renewable Energy
We’ve all been guilty of leaving the heating on for longer than intended or necessary. While California experiences glorious weather, temperatures can drop in the winter months, meaning you may be more inclined to turn the thermostat up to keep your home warm and comfortable. If you’re looking to reduce your carbon footprint, as well as save money on your energy bills, turning down your thermostat by even 1 degree can make a real impact on how much you’re paying out each month.
Turning off electrical equipment that’s not in use, starting your own compost heap to make use of leftover food, recycling anything and everything around the home, as well as steering clear of plastic are just a few of the changes that you can make to help you be more environmentally aware. If you have the money to make huge changes, why not consider installing solar panels on your roof? Not only can you create some of your own electricity, but you will save money on your energy bills each month.
Making any of these changes to your lifestyle and home can give you peace of mind that you’re doing your bit for the environment, as well as reducing your carbon footprint.
*collaborative post
