Global warming is no longer a myth. Its implications and affects are more immediate and evident for everyone to see and feel than previously imagined. The question remains however how can we as individuals help the earth feel happier. Many people are now opting for a “Green” lifestyle by installing solar panels or switching to a green energy provider. Also, with the rise of price comparison websites like Electrictyrates.com and automatic switching services, it has become easier and easier to switch to an eco-conscious energy provider. There are many ways we can play our part in giving our generations a better planet than what we inherited.
1- Grow your own food.
Organic is the best kind of food we can eat and what better to grow and nuture the food we eat ourselves. Concepts of kitchen gardening, urban farming and vertical plantations have helped people grow their own food regardless of the space they have. Spices, green leaves, cucumbers and small fruits are just some examples which can be grown both in smaller spaces and larger expanses equally.
2 – Insulate your roof
Around 75% of the heat is transferred through the roof in houses located in hotter parts of the world. It is equally important in colder climates since this is where heat escapes the house and leads to larger temperature stabilizing bills. There are many different ways to insulate the roof most preferred comprised of recycled materials and environment friendly ingredients.
3- 3Rs – Reduce – Recycle – Reuse
Perhaps the best way to respect and be environment friendly is to adopt the 3Rs which stand for reducing the usage of resources, recycling them after use and reusing them as much as you can. This can be done by using everyday use objects readily available and thrown away in trash.
4- Use energy saving light fixtures and water conservative plumbing fixtures
With the planet fast running out of fossil fuels and usable water technology has given us ways to conserve electricity and water. Dual flush systems and grey water systems are also available easily today. By using efficient fixtures and fittings we can save these resources and ultimately be monetarily better off too. By switching to LED lights and sensor based water fixtures in our homes, we can be smart about our use of these resources.
5- Do Landscaping with native trees and plants
Gardening and plantation is always a great idea for benefit for one’s self and the larger environment. However, by selecting the correct plants and trees to grow, we can save ourselves a lot of resources and energy. Indigenous and local species always take the minimalist of resources and sit the most comfortable in any landscape. They also have to be maintained and looked after less. Local knowledge and gardening hacks about them are more easily available often within the communities themselves. For instance, in a desert climate like that of California, it makes more sense to plant species which are not very water thirsty.