Collaborative post
These days, we’re all trying to cut down on our energy and resource usage to protect the planet. We recognise that the 21st century is critical. If we can make the right decisions today, we’ll be putting our children and grandchildren in a much better position for the future.
But what practical changes can you make to your home to slash your CO2 output and make the world a greener place? Let’s take a look:
Dual-Flush Toilets
Dual-flush toilets might seem like a small thing, but they can make a massive difference. You have big flushes for number twos, and smaller ones for number ones.
What’s more, they’re generally cheap to install. You may not even have to replace your existing toilet bowl.
Water-Saving Bathroom Fixtures And Appliances
On a similar theme, you may want to install water-saving fixtures in the bathroom. Water-sparing faucets and shower heads, for instance, are extremely popular at the moment and cut down on overall water use. When you reduce the amount of water you consume, you also save energy pumping it to your home too.
Rainwater Tanks
Similarly, adding water tanks to your property that collect rain are another great way to reduce your burden on the environment. When you collect the water you need locally, it cuts out the need to pump it from further afield. It’s a great option for anyone who is a long way from a local water source or reservoir.
Low-Emittance Windows
Low-emittance windows are a special type of window that reduces the amount of energy that can radiate out of your property, making your heating systems more efficient. It works a bit like tin foil, reflecting light energy back into your rooms instead of allowing it to escape.
Energy Star Appliances
Another strategy is to install Energy Star appliances in your home. Vendors manufacture dishwashers, washing machines and boilers to consume fewer inputs, such as gas and electricity, while providing the same level of service.
Energy Star ratings come in different levels. The more stars, the better.
You’ll usually find that the higher the rating of the appliance, the costlier it is. However, better-engineered systems also tend to last longer too, so you may be saving yourself money in the long-run.
Solar Panels
Solar panels are a wonderful way to generate electricity for your home without emitting any CO2. Just fit panels to your roof and then allow them to passively generate your home’s energy needs for you. To make them ultra-effective and get off grid, combine them with a battery pack that you can use in the evenings. Remember, solar panels still work, even in cloudy skies.
Use VOC-Free Paint
VOC, or volatile organic compounds, are extremely toxic substances that can damage local ecosystems and harm human health. Fortunately, these days, you can get VOC-free paint.
Wall Insulation
Around 70 percent of home’s heat is lost through the walls and roof. Therefore, insulating walls can dramatically reduce your central heating requirements and cut the amount of energy that you use.