Little Ways to Make a Difference

10 Tips for a More Eco-Friendly Home

Being eco-friendly doesn’t need to be hard or even expensive. There are little things that we can all do around the house that can have a significant impact on the environment. It doesn’t need to happen overnight but every step counts in the journey towards preserving our planet. Here are 10 simple things that you can do around your home to make a difference:

1. Turn the thermostat down a degree or two in the winter, and up a degree or two in the summer; your energy consumption will go down as will your utility bills!
2. Consider using natural products around the house instead of harsh chemicals. There is no need to spend extra cash on green products as there are natural solutions that you likely have around the home; vinegar and water make an excellent all-purpose cleaner and disinfectant.
3. When it comes time to replace appliances, furnaces, air conditioners, and windows, make sure that the new ones are energy efficient. The difference on your utility bills will more than pay for the difference in cost.
4. Grow your own vegetables in the summer months in the backyard. The closer your food is grown to your door, the better it is for the environment as it eliminates transportation pollution. Home grown veggies and fruits also taste better! If you have space, grow enough to preserve for year-round enjoyment.
5. Recycle! This goes further than using the blue and black bins; try to reuse products before sending them away for city recycling. There are great ideas online for ways to repurpose or reuse almost anything!
6. Compost. Whether you do it at home, or send it away in the green bin, keeping organic materials out of landfills is an important step to eco-friendly living! If you do it at home, you will be left with beautiful soil that is perfect for growing your veggies.
7. Consider smart technology for your home. We are all busy and sometimes we forget to turn off the lights or adjust the thermostat. Take the human factor out of it by incorporating these devices in your home.
8. Buy used furniture and decor. Everything that is purchased new means something else will likely end up in a landfill. When it comes time to buy furniture and decor for your home, check out used items as you never know what you might find. Retro is in!
9. Try leaving the car behind and walking or cycling to where you need to go. If you are thinking of moving, consider a neighbourhood that allows for walking to get things done.
10. Avoid single use plastics. Whether it’s water bottles, sandwich bags, or plastic wrap, all of these things end up in our landfills. Use items that are either biodegradable, reusable, or recyclable instead.