Since the term “go green” originated back in 2002, we now hear it on a daily basis. From major corporations to local community efforts, everyone is interested in earth-friendly options to reduce their carbon footprint.
Have you been trying to make eco-friendly choices yourself? If so, we commend you!
Admittedly, it’s not always easy to do if you’re on a tight budget or crunched for time. Here are five easy changes you can make right now.
1. Switch to LED Lightbulbs
Are you still using those same dusty incandescent light bulbs you’ve had for years? If so, unscrew them and swap them out for LED bulbs instead.
Why make this switch? Consider these facts about LED lightbulbs:
- Use 95% of their energy as light
- Last up to 100 times longer than incandescent bulbs
- Can save $1,000 in electricity costs over a 10-year period
Saving money while helping the environment — that’s a win-win in our book!
2. Install Solar Panels
Renewable energy is the wave of the future, and there’s no better way to jump on board than by installing solar panels.
There’s an endless list of perks here, from tax incentives to reducing or even eliminating your power bill. Better yet, solar panels boost your home’s value and offer an incredible ROI, paying for themselves many times over.
You may balk at the upfront costs of installing solar panels, but hear us out. Some companies like Blue Raven Solar offer installation with no upfront costs, meaning there’s no good excuse not to switch to solar.
3. Drive Less
Unless you already own an electric car (bravo!), driving makes a serious impact on your carbon footprint. As much as one-third of air pollution in the US comes from vehicles, while our junkyards sit full of unusable scrap metal and plastic.
If it’s possible to walk, ride your bike, or use public transportation where you live, do it. Even leaving your car at home a few days a week can make a big difference!
4. Use Eco-Friendly Products
We have more options today for earth-friendly products than ever before. Instead of sticking with the same brands you’ve always used, why not seek out eco-friendly alternatives?
For example, swap out those harsh chemical cleaners for greener cleaning products. The same goes for your personal care products like shampoo, soap, and toothpaste.
5. Reduce Waste Inside Your Home
This last tip won’t cost you a penny. In fact, it will help you save money!
To live a more earth-friendly lifestyle, make tiny changes at home. Power off or unplug electronics and appliances when you’re not using them. Take shorter showers and fix leaky faucets to reduce water waste. Use your microwave instead of your oven and line-dry your clothes instead of using the dryer.
You’ll be amazed by how much these small changes add up over time.
Go Green With These Earth-Friendly Changes
As you can see, it doesn’t require a huge amount of time or money to live a more eco-friendly lifestyle. Use the earth-friendly tips listed above to do your part to help the environment!
From renewable energy to the latest fashion trends, our site covers it all. Keep browsing for more interesting articles like this one.