Going Green: Simple Ways For Homeowners To Be Eco-Friendly

Going green comes with a lot to think about, and there are several options to keep in mind as a homeowner. It’s also a lifestyle change that you can make by adding things to your home, such as a garden that conserves water, or solar panels that will utilize and produce natural energy. Whether it’s for your current home or when you’re looking to buy a new one, knowing what to look for and how to make those changes will make the process much easier; here are a few resources and ideas to get you started.

Make some lifestyle changes

One simple way to make a green change around the house is by composting. This process involves taking vegetable and fruit peels and other perishable items that would typically be thrown out and using the mixture to fertilize your lawn and garden. 

Composting is a great way to cut down on the trash that ends up in a landfill, one of the biggest contributors to greenhouse gases and global warming. If you have space in your backyard, consider creating an area to keep your compost, but if you don’t have the room or don’t think you’re ready for such a big commitment, you might go with a version designed for inside.

Shop mindfully

There are many ways to be more mindful when shopping, whether you’re looking for a new home or simply buying furniture or groceries. Quartz points out that shopping locally is a great way to go green, since it allows you to cut down on gas emissions; if you take reusable bags with you, even better! If you have to make purchases online, look for retailers that utilize recycled packaging, select shipping options that allow for slower delivery, and find out where you can drop off cardboard boxes to be recycled.

When it comes to shopping for a home, there are many things you can look for in terms of how eco-friendly it is. Landscaping that doesn’t require much water to maintain, solar panels, energy-efficient appliances and lighting, and energy-efficient updates to the HVAC system or hot water heater are all great finds in a new home. The good news is that not only are these features good for the environment, but they’ll also save you money throughout the year!

Watch out for phantom power

As HowStuffWorks explains, unused appliances and electronics can use “phantom power” when they’re plugged in, even if you don’t have them turned on. You might be amazed at the amount of energy they use and how much they drive up your utility bill. Save yourself some money and reduce your home’s carbon footprint by unplugging devices that aren’t being used. The biggest culprits typically include items that use a remote control, such as TVs and other entertainment devices, but it’s also a good idea to unplug your phone and laptop when they’re fully charged. 

Reduce, reuse, and recycle

Because the landfills are so overcrowded, it’s more important than ever to be mindful about what you throw out. Reducing your consumption, reusing and repurposing items instead of throwing them away (such as turning an old dresser into a desk), and recycling and donating items you no longer need are great ways to keep the landfills from overflowing.

Many homeowners are adopting more eco-friendly efforts, thanks to the benefits they provide for the environment and their wallets.  While going green takes a little thought and care, once you figure out the best ways for your family to contribute to the planet, it gets easier. By making mindful lifestyle changes and updating your home to be more energy-efficient, you’ll have peace of mind about your carbon footprint.