Did you know there’s a nearly 50% increase expected in global energy usage by 2050? This is alarming because the population keeps on increasing every day. Imagine the overall increase in the demand for energy every year!
It’s time we started taking small but effective measures to conserve energy. Because, if we don’t do this today, future generations will have to bear the burden of our insensitivity towards the depletion of natural resources. So, how can you conserve the environment? By going green! And how can you do that? Well, here are some ways. Let’s start!
1. Reduce, Reuse, Recycle
Reduce consumption of items that you don’t need.
Reuse whatever you can. You can reuse plastic bags, containers and shopping bags.
Recycle items that are recyclable. By segregating waste at source, you can make it easier for yourself to recycle stuff.
Take small measures like carrying your own shopping bag, not buying products that are packaged in plastic, using reusable containers and bottles, and saying no to single-use plastic items like straws, water bottles etc.
2. Use Eco-Friendly Modes of Transport
All of us love taking our cars to work or for an outing. But imagine the effect if just 40 of us decided to take a bus instead of commuting solo in one car each!
Commute by public transport whenever you can. You can also buy vehicles that run on green or renewable energy. Or, consider buying a bicycle and cycle to nearby destinations. This will help you conserve energy and at the same time, you participate in some healthy physical activity.
3. Eat Local
Think Global, Eat Local. This is one motto everyone should adhere to. When you choose to buy local produce, you help reduce your carbon footprint and the resources required to get the product to you.
4. Say No to Plastic
Say no to plastic! Refrain from buying products that come in single-use plastic. It is not as tough as it seems. Many brands and stores are now moving to non-plastic or eco-friendly packaging. Support their initiative by buying from these brands.
It may cost you more but this small step will go a long way in conserving the environment, which is drowning under the weight of plastic.
5. Say Yes to Green Energy
Consider switching to green energy for your homes and commercial spaces. There are many electricity providers which provide green energy. By using green energy, you can reduce your carbon footprint to a great extent.
You can compare green energy plans from different providers and choose the one that suits you best. Green Energy plans by Origin Energy are some you can consider.
6. Use Water Judiciously
There are many ways to reduce water consumption. One is to install water saving devices in your home. Second is to ensure you don’t leave taps running or dripping. Third, you can start rainwater harvesting at your home.
You can also do greywater harvesting. Greywater is the wastewater generated at home. You can use this water for many purposes after treating it. Greywater does not include sewage water.
7. Use Appliances Smartly
Ensure that appliances are switched off when not in use. Before switching on heaters or coolers, consider wearing or taking off those extra layers. When buying appliances, compare different appliances and buy ones that are energy efficient. This will not only help you save energy but cut down on energy bills.
8. Use Eco-friendly & Cruelty-Free Products
Try to use products that are environmentally friendly. Products that are environmentally friendly and cruelty free are ones that come in recyclable or biodegradable packaging. The production of these products doesn’t result in cruelty to animals or pollution of the environment.
Taking these small measures in our daily lives is not tough as it seems. Once you start practicing these, they become a way of life. After all, taking care of the environment is more important than our convenience!