Every April 22, Earth Day invites us to celebrate our planet and be mindful about making a positive environmental impact. Changing just one everyday choice can add up to a significant impact over time. The bonus – some of these changes are not only good for the environment, but they can ultimately save you money. In today’s blog, we’ll look at some simple changes for a more eco-friendly home and lifestyle.
Plug TVs and other electronics into smart plugs to reduce energy consumption.
Reduce Phantom Energy Use
Cutting energy consumption is not only environmentally friendly; it also reduces your utility bills. Many electronics continue to use energy even when they are turned off. Use smart power strips or unplug devices, chargers, TVs, and gaming consoles when they’re not in use to save electricity. Even simple habits, like turning off lights when leaving a room, can make a difference in your energy consumption.
Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle
We’ve heard the phrase “reduce, reuse, and recycle” for years. Recycling and reusing are easy, but reducing waste can take a bit more planning. Fortunately, there are more and more products that make reducing waste easier. Consider taking reusable produce bags and shopping bags to the grocery store or farmers markets to use fewer plastic bags. Buying reusable cloths and microfiber towels to replace single use paper towels can also cut down on waste and save money.
More companies are opting to reduce packaging and use recyclable materials. To find recycling services in your area, check out our utility guides.
Fix leaky faucets to conserve water and reduce your water bill.
Conserve Water
Water efficiency is important for conserving local water supplies, especially during dry spells, and cutting your utility bill. Fix leaks promptly, install low-flow showerheads and faucets, and use a rain barrel to collect water for outdoor watering during the summer. Try turning off the tap while brushing your teeth; you could save gallons of water each day. Cutting down on hot water usage can also reduce your energy bill.
Use Smart Irrigation Systems
For homeowners with gardens or lawns, a smart irrigation system can make watering more efficient by adjusting schedules based on weather conditions and soil moisture levels. This prevents overwatering and reduces unnecessary water usage.
Plant flowers that will attract pollinators.
Plant Pollinator-Friendly Gardens
Pollinators are essential to our ecosystem and the growth of fruits, vegetables, and grains. Gardens that attract pollinators, like bees and butterflies, support biodiversity and help their populations survive. Some of the top pollinator-friendly plants in our area include goldenrod, asters, milkweed, and coneflowers. Get tips about attracting pollinators in our area from Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden. Remember, even if you don’t have a yard, you can still plant herbs or flowers on a balcony or windowsill.
Final Thoughts
Making sustainable choices in your home and your daily life can positively impact the environment while yielding some financial savings for you. Changing just one habit is a win-win that can create lasting benefits.
If you’re looking for environmentally friendly changes to your home that will enhance its future resale value, our expert agents are ready to share their advice and connect you with trusted contractors. Whether you are buying, selling, or updating your home, we want you to enjoy the process!
