Sustainability is a pretty hot topic nowadays as people try to learn how to better protect the environment. If you’re considering living a lifestyle that’s more eco-friendly but aren’t too sure where to start, your home is a fantastic place. From your yard to your attic, there are a plethora of ways you can change so that you shrink your carbon footprint. It all begins with the simplicity of changing a few preferences and habits.
Recycled Paper Towels and Other Products
Of course, the easiest step to take is to start recycling. You don’t want to just dispose of things properly but should also use more recycled goods.
Switching to recycled paper towels, napkins, and toilet paper is an easy change. This can make a massive difference when it comes to preserving resources. These products are a large source of waste and deforestation. In fact, paperboard and paper products make up a large percentage of all municipal solid waste. The next time you go shopping, opt for green products that contain a minimum of 30% or more content that’s post-consumer recycled.
Solar Power
Solar energy provides your home with free electricity and might even put some money back into your wallet. When compared to energy sources that require things like fuel, coal, or petroleum, solar power is also the most unconventional but the most reliable and earth friendly. It uses space that is otherwise unused – your roof. Solar panels will be placed there, and the power company will actually supply you with meters that run backward so that any additional power generated can be sold to them.
Weatherproof and Insulate
You can lower your power bills and conserve energy while preventing air leaks simply by insulating and sealing your home. Before the coldest and warmest months hit, ensure that there aren’t any cracks or gaps in your windows and doors. If there happen to be any weak spots, check into weather stripping and caulking services. You might also ask for an inspection by an insulation expert to identify where you might need a bit more insulation.
Recycle Electronics and Junk
Another eco-friendly habit you can pick up to make your home buckets marginally more sustainable is recycling. Remember to recycle metals, paper, plastics, and even your old electronics. That can include items like phones, printers, TVs, and even laptops.
If you’re decluttering your house and plan to throw a lot of items away, make an effort to find out if there’s an e-waste recycling center near you. Did you know, according to the CDC, electronics that are thrown away can end up in landfills and leak toxins into the air and soil?
Reuse
Do you have a crafting bone? If you have items that can be reused, reuse them. Fill empty pickle jars with your spare change and keep it on your desk in order to encourage healthier spending habits while saving a bit of money for rainy days. Reuse your old egg cartons to start planting seeds in the spring. The possibilities aren’t just fun, they’re endless.
Limit Plastics
Limiting your use and consumption of plastic products is a critical part of living greener. Single-use plastics, such as utensils, bags, straws, and water bottles, are a massive burden to landfills and oceans across the planet. Some ways to limit their use include cooking instead of ordering in, buying and utilizing more reusable items, buying in bulk, and not buying bottled water.
Living sustainably is difficult at first. You have to relearn everything you’ve been taught throughout your life. However, if you stay committed to it, you’ll feel so much better about the way you are leaving the planet for those who come after you.
