More and more people are trying to live more sustainable lifestyles. Eco-friendly living benefits our planet, our environment, and human health. How can you and your family contribute? Check out these tips for sustainable living that you can implement in your own home.
Start a Garden
Did you know that food crops must compete with 10,000 species of plant-eating insects, 30,000 species of weeds, 3,000 species of nematodes? When you plant your own vegetables and other crops, you get to decide what chemicals and fertilizers are used. You'd likely utilize natural fertilizers, which are safer and more cost-effective. The more gardens planted by individuals, the less harmful chemicals exposed to our environment.
Purchase Produce From Farmer's Markets
Similar to planting your own garden, purchasing fruits and vegetables from your local farmer's market is also helpful. Farmer's markets typically sell foods grown within a certain radius. This allows consumers to know where their produce was grown and the ethical practices the farmers used to grow them. This allows for more sustainable farming practices to take place and for less pollution and waste to be produced.
Utilize Water-Heavy Appliances Knowledgably
Appliances that require the usage of large amounts of water cause waste and an abundance of energy to be used frequently in one's home. These appliances include washing machines and dishwashers. Nearly 30 million gallons of wastewater are produced by the average industrial laundry every year. To live more sustainably in your home, limit your usage of these appliances. Utilize your dishwasher only when it's full. Wash your clothes in your washing machine with cold water as often as possible, and limit machine usage to full loads. Doing this will save you money on your utility bills as well as contribute to a more eco-friendly lifestyle.
Shop Second-Hand
The fashion industry contributes to high amounts of wasted clothing and textiles put in garbages and landfills. To limit this, don't shop at stores that are considered fast fashion, which essentially means their products are made cheaply, causing customers to buy products at low prices. However, consumers are not able to utilize them for a long period of time because of the poor quality. This causes many people to simply throw out these clothes, and the cycle continues. Instead, shop at second-hand stores whenever possible. Not only can you find used clothes at thrift stores for low prices, but you can also find furniture, books, CDs, decor, and trinkets that you can decorate your home with.
Learn More About Recycling
How much do you really know about recycling? You may recycle cardboard cereal boxes and rinsed out cans in your home, but there's so much more to it. Do your research and share information with your family members, especially children who may not have a grasp of the important concept and practice. Explain what products can and cannot be recycled and how to go about it properly. Set up recycling bins in your home or garage, and make an effort to buy products that can be recycled.
Hire a Professional Inspector
Your home may have cracks, leaks, and other issues you are unaware of. Hire a professional inspector to be sure your house is properly insulated. Check your faucets and toilets for leaks. Not only are you saving energy, but you will likely lower your energy and utility bills, too. You may even consider making some bigger changes or renovations to your home. Energy efficiency is one of the most desired features, according to 48% of buyers interested in new homes. Even if your home isn't new, you have the ability to hire professionals to make sustainable and eco-friendly changes throughout your house so that your home can be as energy efficient as it can be.
Use Cloth Napkins and Rags Instead of Paper Towels
The number of napkins and paper towels that are thrown out in a family's home each day is likely pretty high. Between meal preparation and eating, an average family's garbage may be filled with these products. While it may be hard to make the switch, consider utilizing cloth napkins and rags more in your home. They can be added to loads of laundry you already do, and it will limit the number of napkins and paper towels thrown out in your home each day.
A sustainable lifestyle is at your fingertips, and it's easier than you think to implement more eco-friendly practices into your house and your family's everyday lives. Consider implementing these ideas as soon as possible. Future generations will thank you.
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