Global warming affects millions of people globally. To reduce carbon emissions, households must take measures to reduce their carbon footprint. In this article, you will learn a few tips on how you can reduce the carbon footprint of your home.
Rely on renewable sources of energy
Water heaters consume a considerable amount of power. To reduce their consumption, consider installing solar water heaters to provide warm water in the shower and kitchen. If you have sufficient funds, install solar panels to power your home. Although solar panels are expensive to install, they do not accrue monthly charges, so they are cheaper in the long run.
Energy efficiency
Below are a few ways to improve your home's energy efficiency:
- Purchase home appliances with a high energy efficiency rating.
- Replace your home's lighting with energy efficient LED bulbs.
- Incorporate natural lighting in your home design to eliminate the need for electric bulbs during the day.
- Cut on air conditioning costs by insulating your home, using window blinds and awnings and planting trees on your compound.
- Encourage your family to turn off lights and home appliances after using them, and consider getting appliances regularly maintained; this can prevent them from consuming a lot of power.
Transport
Encourage your family to use public transport, cycle or walk to work. If this is not possible, purchase electric or hybrid cars that produce less emissions compared to petrol- or diesel-powered vehicles.
Food use
You do not have to be a vegetarian to consume low-carbon foods. Organically grown foods have a low carbon footprint. Therefore, purchase your groceries from organic markets. Meats, especially beef, are known to have a high carbon footprint. You can, therefore, replace it with alternatives such as chicken and pork.
Garden
Plants consume carbon dioxide and therefore reduce a household's carbon footprint. If you have a garden, beautify it with a variety of shrubs and trees. Set aside some space for vegetables such as carrots, tomatoes and cabbages. If you live in an apartment, consider a balcony garden. Use organic fertiliser when planting.
Renovations
Renovation works can significantly increase your home's carbon emission. If you hire a contractor to conduct demolition or excavation works, ask him or her to use energy-efficient equipment. Use timber from sustainable forests. If possible, use wood composites instead of lumber during construction.
To reduce the carbon footprint of your home, consider renewable energy, enhance your home's energy efficiency, use environmentally friendly means of transport, eat low-carbon foods, plant trees and be environmentally cautious during renovations.
For more information, contact an energy-efficient home design business.
