A Deep Dive into Environmentally Conscious Home Solutions
As the call for a sustainable world continues taking shape around the world, it is important to join the wagon and be part of the solution. And that can start by greening our homes to minimize the negative impact on the environment.
The beauty of a greener life is that there is so much in it for you as well. You get to enjoy greater savings on monthly bills and a healthy life while at it. Have no idea how to start being more environmentally conscious? We have a checklist of home solutions that are gentle to the environment below.
Solutions for an environmentally conscious home
The fact that no step is insignificant when it comes to being friendly to the environment is the beauty of it. If you are committed to giving your contribution to the environment, here are a few solutions that you should start implementing in your home:
Ensuring energy efficiency
Electricity production involves burning fossils that release harmful gasses into the air. Saving energy usage at home aims to reduce the amount of electricity produced. This creates a ripple effect on the amount of fossils burnt in power plants as well as toxic gasses released into the environment. What are your steps to being more energy efficient at home?
- Keep lights not in use turned off. You can invest in smart lights that automatically switch off when you leave a room
- Switch halogen bulbs with energy-saving LEDs
- Ditch older energy-intensive appliances for newer energy-efficient ones
- Invest in water-powered heated floors to save heating energy
- Insulate your home
- Replace your water heating system with a tankless system
- Install a smart thermostat for your HVAC
Using sustainable materials
The main endeavor of sustainable materials is to have a positive impact on the environment right from how they are manufactured throughout their lifecycle. These attributes make materials sustainable:
- Energy efficiency – They use less energy to produce or are made from renewable sources such as recycled materials. They also use less energy and water during construction
- Reduced transportation-associated gas emissions – They are produced locally, reducing gas emissions associated with transportation.
- Durable – They are sturdy materials built to last that don’t require regular replacement, reducing landfill waste. For this reason, they result in durable buildings that come with fewer upkeep needs.
- Degradable or reusable – After serving a lifetime, they degrade back to the environment or can be repurposed for other uses
- Don’t emit harmful gasses – Sustainable materials have zero traces of harmful chemicals that evaporate into the air. A good example is epoxy resin which is manufactured with no VOCs. Opting for epoxy coating for your floor, walls, and roofing in your next home remodeling project results in not just a durable home but one with improved air quality
Reducing water usage
More water remains in the ecosystem with reduced water consumption at home, enhancing aquatic life. In addition, the less water you use, the less energy is used to pump and heat. Taking steps to use less water at home undoubtedly reduces your carbon footprint.
Your first step towards reducing water usage at home is ensuring zero waste. You can do this by eliminating leaks in the plumbing system. Go over and beyond to invest in water-efficient appliances and systems, from low-flow toilets and showers smart irrigation systems to water-efficient washing machines. Moreover, small steps such as taking shorter showers turning off taps when not in use go a long way.
Reduce waste generated at home
Waste in landfills and water bodies arguably has a huge negative impact on the environment. You will be on the right track by making efforts to ensure that less wastelands there. Before making a purchase, be sure to give it some thought. For instance, choosing to buy second-hand items saves them from ending up as waste. You can also keep off single-use items and go for things that can be repurposed after use. A good example is buying a refillable water bottle instead of a plastic water bottle or buying durable utensils for your party rather than disposable plates. In addition, make sure to reuse items rather than toss them in the bin.
Using sustainable items and supplies
Opt for furniture and home décor items made of natural materials such as bamboo. You can find stunning mats, laundry baskets, light fixtures, and more made of bamboo. This allows you to bridge your sustainability goals while maintaining a stylish and visually appealing home. Moreover, choose supplies that are free from toxic chemicals. For instance, you can switch to sustainable cleaning products for improved air quality.
Conclusion
Creating a sustainable future starts at home by taking small steps and making decisions centered on reducing your carbon footprint. Start by saving energy and water use using the suggested solutions. In addition, use sustainable materials and purchase sustainable items for your home. Also, take steps towards reducing waste at home by minding what you buy and reusing items whenever possible.