With Earth Day on the way in April, it’s a great time to pause and think about whether you’re really doing all you can for the environment. And so much of what you can be doing to help preserve the planet’s integrity starts right at home.
The list ahead may seem like little things that won’t make much of an impact, but the truth of the matter is that if you keep up with them, and if we all take the time and make the effort to do our part, they really can make at least a bit of a difference. Yes, we still need to vote the right people into office and hold them accountable, but living more sustainably sets a good example for future generations.
So, let’s take a look at 6 easy at-home hacks you can do to help the planet every day.
#1: Unplug and save some energy
Are you someone that tends to leave their hair straightener or curling iron plugged in all day, even after you’re done using them? Or maybe you’re someone that has a kitchen full of small appliances that you keep plugged in, like your toaster or coffee maker, but you really only use them once a day. If you’re not using something, it can actually make a difference to unplug it.
If you want to get really technical, “phantom energy” otherwise known as behind the scenes usage or standby mode, accounts for approximately 10% of energy bills every month in the United States. So not only will unplugging those items not in use save energy, but you’ll also end up taking a substantial chunk off your electricity bill every month. Bonus!
#2: Switch out your light bulbs for energy-saving ones
Speaking of electricity, another home item that you definitely use every single day are your lights. Table lamps, chandeliers, wall sconces. We all have all sorts of light sources in our homes. Well, it can actually help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and conserve energy in your home to switch out all your light bulbs for LED or CFL ones.
Again, this is something you’ll take note of when you get your energy bill once you make the switch as they use less electricity, but you’ll also find that LED bulbs last a lot longer, so you’ll actually be putting fewer light bulbs in the trash as well.
#3: Support sustainable, eco-friendly and local companies when shopping
Another activity that we do at home all the time and might not even think about its impact on the environment is online shopping. It can really do wonders for the environment if you’re mindful about where exactly you’re doing your shopping and what kind of packaging it comes in.
For example, do a little research about the new swimsuit brand you’re into before making a purchase. A lot of websites nowadays have a special page which they discuss sustainability and what they’re doing to help lessen their impact on the environment. If things don’t sound good to you or they don’t offer recycled packaging, it’s worth it to check out another online shop.
Also, don’t forget about supporting local businesses in your area. Your purchase won’t have to get on a big truck or plane in order to be delivered and you’re helping to stimulate your local economy at the same time.
#4: Make your own composting station
Even if you live in an apartment, it’s actually a really simple task to begin composting. Not only can it substantially help reduce your household waste, but you’re also left with great fertilizer that you can use outside in your garden or even in your houseplants.
If you’re in a smaller space, you can do your composting right under your sink with a worm composting setup — and don’t worry, it’s virtually scent-free, if you do things correctly. All you have to do is make sure you’re putting the right things in your compost, such as fruit and vegetable scraps and coffee grounds, and it should do most of the work for you.
#5: Eat less meat
Not only will incorporating meatless Mondays into your regular weekly routine allow you to get more vegetables and plant-based proteins into your diet, but going vegetarian a few times per week will do great things for the environment as well.
According to Greenpeace, the livestock sector contributes just as much greenhouse gas emissions as cars, not to mention the removal of precious trees by cattle ranchers. So even though it may not seem like a lot to swap out the roast beef sandwich for tuna or switch to a veggie burger next time you eat out, these things add up and can impact the environment in a positive way.
#6: Wash your clothes in cold water
Did you know that if you wash your clothes in cold water it can help to preserve your clothing for longer because cold water doesn't cause as much fading and shrinkage? Those reasons aside, cold water washing on a routine basis is a great way to reduce the amount of energy you use at home.
Heating up the water in your washing machine accounts for a good portion of the energy it uses. So, if you’re someone with small children and wash a few loads of laundry a day, when you switch to cold water washing, you should see your electric bill decrease and it’s also something that requires basically no effort to help the environment.
You can also try hanging your clothes up to dry as opposed to using the dryer.
