As we become more and more aware of the dangers of climate change in our society, it’s very likely you may be looking for ways to make your home life more environmentally friendly. If this is the case, here are some suggestions for you. Creating a more eco-friendly home life doesn’t have to be all that difficult. In fact, there are a few quick, simple changes you can make that will make a big difference in your home.
Your Appliances
One of the quickest and easiest ways to accomplish a more eco-friendly home life is by updating your appliances to models with environmental standards. These could be super obvious things like your fridge and dishwasher, but can also be less obvious. These could be super obvious things like your fridge and dishwasher, but can also be less obvious such as LastObject’s alternatives to single-use items. For example, according to the Environmental Protection Agency, underground storage tanks of 110 gallons or less are not subject to federal regulations. Ensuring that all your equipment meets environmental standards and functions in order to use the least amount of energy possible will help to keep your home more energy-efficient.
Another consideration is to buy appliances or home equipment that will last for many years. For example, furnaces are designed to last for approximately 15-20 years. If you have a reliable home furnace, you may not need that energy-sucking space heater, too.
Drive Consciously
The second leading cause of carbon emissions in the United States is transportation. One way you can lead a more environmentally friendly lifestyle is by driving less and walking or carpooling more. Another option is to buy a hybrid car so you’re not using as much gas. Drivers in the United States account for around 44% of the world’s gasoline consumption. Hybrid cars, carpooling, or walking and biking more are all ways you can help to reduce your role in our country’s consumption of fossil fuels.
Eat Less Animal Products
One of the most substantial ways you can limit your carbon footprint within the home is by altering your diet. Leading the United States in carbon emissions is animal agriculture. Therefore, the most direct way to reduce carbon emissions is to reduce our countries reliance on animal products. Even avoiding meat and dairy for one day out of the week more than your diet currently allows can make a difference. You don’t have to become vegan overnight. You don’t have to become vegan at all! However, it is a way that you can make a difference.
That said, you can also make a difference in your home by paying attention to what you throw away or waste. Do you boil only the water you need for your cup of tea or pasta? Do you keep the water running while you brush your teeth? How are you storing your foods? Your paper and plastic waste take a very long time to decompose, and so limiting how much you throw away and what you’re able to recycle or not use at all is a great way to limit your footprint as well.
It will take a little bit of energy and intention to create a more self-sustainable lifestyle, but it will be very worth it for the environment. Every little action helps to keep our planet a place we can inhabit. With these simple changes, you can make a significant difference in your own carbon footprint. Find out more about your carbon footprint here.
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