More and more homeowners are concerned about their effect on the environment. After all, American consumers create 21 percent of the world’s carbon dioxide emissions and make up less than five percent of its population. Reducing your carbon footprint and participating in low-impact living means more than just recycling newspapers. It can expand to almost every aspect of your life. Below are some tips on how to make it through green home remodeling and everyday lifestyle choices.
Home energy efficiency: Any green home remodeling project should implement plans to make your home more energy efficient. Measures include adding insulation, replacing windows and doors, purchasing an efficient water heater, and upgrading your heating and air conditioning systems.
Energy saving appliances: Using only Energy-Star certified appliances conserves energy, water, saves money, and reduces greenhouse gas emissions. Start with your refrigerator, which is usually the biggest energy user in the house. Consider purchasing Energy Star-rated versions of dishwashers, washing machines, and televisions.
Sustainable materials: Choose sustainable materials like cork or bamboo flooring, furniture made from sustainable wood, and recycled glass tiles or countertops. Also consider how you can recycle materials like used doors or old furniture.
Turning on: There are many ways to reduce your electrical lighting costs. If you plan to remodel a green home, include plenty of windows and skylights to reduce your need for electricity. Choose energy efficient lighting fixtures and compact fluorescent bulbs (CFLs). Look out for LED lights, which have just hit the market in full force. Although they are more expensive, LED lights use very little electricity. Each can reportedly last up to 20 years without changing the bulb.
composting: Build a composting area into your exterior design. When you compost table scraps, you reduce the amount of waste going to landfills. Many gardeners also like compost to use as a free, high-quality fertilizer.
Transport: Carpool or take public transportation; ride your bike; Reduce or combine car trips when possible. Think about how your purchase options impact transportation. By purchasing local produce and other products, you reduce the environmental impact of transporting those products to your home.