Although massive corporations and government officials have made strides to improve global environmental initiatives, ordinary citizens play a considerable role in protecting the earth. Green initiatives have become more accepted and often only require individuals to change their habits and rethink how they view the world. Critics of eco-friendly techniques insist that they’re too expensive, but green practices are gaining acceptance and sometimes result in lower costs and greater efficiency. In the following sections, you will learn how to play a role in protecting the environment.
Renewable Energy
Although energy produced by wind, water and solar methods is increasing, solar power is more accessible for residential and commercial locations. Unlike the systems available in the 1990s, solar power systems are less costly and cumbersome to install and maintain. With recent advancements in solar technology, solar power systems have become more effective in transferring and storing the sun’s energy. The batteries that store solar energy are also smaller than previous designs and resemble a standard utility box. If you want to become independent of the power company and protect the environment, you can purchase the best solar panels for your property without breaking your budget.
Waste Reduction
The world’s oceans and landfills are needlessly filled with plastic waste that’s non-recyclable. Single serving products such as plastic utensils and food wrappers have become a global problem that can be remedied by adopting waste reduction techniques. Recycling helps reduce waste, but only a small number of plastic products can be recycled. In your home, you can reduce waste by avoiding individually wrapped products and water bottles. Purchase an insulated thermos to replace disposable water bottles, use a coffee maker that doesn’t use disposable cups, and use non-disposable items and utensils that can be washed to reduce waste.
Energy Conservation
Energy costs are likely a significant part of your monthly budget, but you can lower your bills and reduce your environmental impact by conserving energy. Heating and cooling systems typically draw a considerable amount of power, but you can install solar units to replace your standard HVAC system. Solar heating and air conditioning units are perfect for families who can’t afford to install solar panels on their roofs. Although you will not see the benefits in several years, you can lower your utility costs and conserve energy by planting trees on your property to shade your house.
Lighting Upgrades
The standard bulbs and lighting fixtures in your home are inefficient and taxing on your utility budget. Lighting fixtures can be replaced with motion-activated lights that automatically shut off after someone leaves a room, and LEDs can replace traditional bulbs. LEDs produce the same amount of light at a lower wattage and last much longer. For your exterior lighting, you can use solar lights that are wireless and simple to install.
Composting
Another excellent eco-friendly practice that reduces wastes and benefits the environment is composting. Food waste is rapidly becoming a serious global problem, and a large percentage of the waste deposited in landfills can be recycled and returned to the earth. Although you cannot compost every type of organic food waste, you can throw coffee grounds, banana peels and other unused produce in a compost bin. Composting is an inexpensive activity that benefits your yard and garden. After a season of collecting compost, you’ll have a rich substance that provides moisture and nutrients to edible and ornamental plants. Several commercial compost bins are available, but you can build a homemade container with a small quantity of lumber for under fifty dollars.
Gardening
If you’re an avid composter, you likely enjoy gardening. Growing fruit and vegetables on your property can reduce your food budget and trips to the grocery store. More homeowners recognize the benefits of gardening on their properties, and small communities across the country have taken part in maintaining community gardens to assist local populations. Gardens can provide healthy produce and have the added benefit of improving an area’s aesthetic appeal. When you’re able to grow plants at home, you can control what types of fertilizers and pesticides are used in the garden. If you’re reluctant to use commercial products, you can design an organic garden that uses natural forms of fertilizer and pest control.
Every small way that you can protect the environment will benefit the planet, and fortunately, more average citizens are changing their habits and improving conditions around the world.
