The environment is filled with a wide range of pollutants, from things that people use in their daily lives to the natural elements that surround us. People should know what they can do to make their homes greener and better protect themselves, their families, and the planet from these harmful toxins. Here are seven ways you can make your home a little bit more environmentally friendly every day.
1) Use biodegradable cleaning products
Every time you clean your home, there is the potential for it to become less safe. Biodegradable cleaning products are made with natural ingredients instead of chemicals, making them better for you and your household. They also have less impact on the environment when they break down after being used.
2) Use non-toxic paints
There is a lot of debate about whether or not it is better to use oil-based paints or latex paint. However, latex paints are typically considered the greener choice for those concerned about air quality because they create fewer fumes that can be bad for both people and the planet. When choosing between brands, look into whether or not each one is low-VOC.
3) Choose energy-efficient appliances
Replacing old gadgets with newer ones made to be more eco-friendly will help you save money and resources in the long run. When buying washers, dryers, and dishwashers, look for ones with the Energy Star label to know that they've been tested to save users a significant amount of money on their monthly utility bills.
4) Use renewable energy sources
Mainly, solar panels on roofs allow homeowners to harness cheap electricity directly from the sun's rays. Research indicates that one small photovoltaic panel on your roof will reduce greenhouse gas emissions by approximately one tonne of carbon dioxide equivalent per year, making it a greener alternative to mains electricity. Not only that, but mains electricity is becoming more expensive all the time, while homes using solar energy are likely to save on their bills in the long term. Further, if your home uses gas for heating and cooking, adding a mechanical ventilation system to recirculate this hot air can save as much as 5% on your energy bill.
5) Compost organic wastes
Home composting organic kitchen waste like vegetable peelings, fruit cores, and tea bags turn household food waste into a nutrient-rich compost that can fertilize lawns, flowerbeds, and gardens. That reduces the need for chemical-based fertilizers or soil excavation and reduces greenhouse gas emissions associated with food waste disposal through landfill sites.
6) Buy recycled products
Recycling glass and plastic helps reduce the mining of virgin materials and avoid the emissions caused by the manufacture of new products. Additionally, recycling paper and cardboard helps reduce deforestation and carbon dioxide emissions associated with growing trees (although not all paper is made from trees). Paper mills may also help reduce other greenhouse gasses such as nitrous oxide through improved processes or technological advances.
7) Plant a garden
Gardening is a perfect way to reconnect yourself with nature and reduce the number of grocery stores you have to buy from by growing some healthy food right at home. You can grow anything from fruits and vegetables to herbs and flowers, so it's always good to have something new around your house. Not only will you save a ton of money on produce every week, but you'll also feel more connected to your environment, since everyone knows that plants are crucial to keeping an eco-friendly environment.
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