Solar energy and other renewable energy sources have reignited hopes of
a greener, cleaner world. We don’t, however, need to wait for governments to take
control and to convert energy production to renewable solutions. Instead, we
can all do our part to reducing our carbon footprint. Reducing your carbon
footprint doesn’t have to mean a change in lifestyle, either. Here are five
improvements you can make to your home and life that will reduce your monthly
bills and reduce your carbon footprint:
1.
Seal Your
Home
One of the first things that everyone should do
when aiming to reduce their carbon footprint is to simply seal their home. This
will reduce your monthly utility bill and make your home warmer and dryer. For
small projects, you can do it yourself by replacing old caulking. Whether you
need a professional renovation done depends on the state of your home. This
investment, however, is needed if you ever want to sell your home.
2.
Heat Your
Home More Efficiently
Once your home is properly sealed, you can then
work on using
energy more efficiently. One thing you should never do,
for instance, is leave your heating on (even on low) throughout the day when
you leave the house. Instead, keep it off except for key times when you need
it. Rugs and thick curtains can also trap and retain heat, meaning that you can
use heating more effectively.
3.
Upgrade
Your Appliances
One of the biggest culprits for a high-energy
bill (and as a result, a larger carbon footprint) are old household appliances.
Upgrading to newer, more efficient models will not only save you money, it is
also much safer. Old appliances are fire hazards, don’t work as well, and
typically look outdated. Updated appliances are also a good investment if you
ever want to later sell your home.
4.
Upgrade
Your Car
Just as you should upgrade your appliances, you
should also upgrade your car. Visit
Eastern Mini and pick up a car that is safer and has better gas
mileage efficiency. The more efficient the vehicle, the better. Hybrid cars are
becoming increasingly common as well, which is another avenue you can look at
when choosing a new vehicle.
5.
Install
Renewable Energy for Your Home
The last improvement you can make to your life,
that will also reduce your monthly bills, is to install a home renewable energy
solution. This means solar
panels on your roof, or even a windmill if you have a large enough
property. The renewable energy can be stored and used, reducing your monthly
energy bill, and saving the planet in one go.
Everyone can get on board with these solutions, because they mean
reduced costs in the long run and increased personal safety. If everyone around
the world reduced their carbon footprint humanity would make true headway
against global warming. Do your part in saving the environment, even if you
only do it for the reduced monthly utilities bill.